IMPORTANT — READ BEFORE USE This document contains critical safety information for lithium-ion battery products supplied by Project Lithium Limited. You must read this document in full before using, charging, storing, or transporting your battery. By taking possession of this product, you confirm you have read and understood the contents of this document and agree to be bound by the liability terms set out herein. A copy of your signed acknowledgement will be retained by Project Lithium Limited.
Project Lithium Limited
Lithium-ion batteries are a popular choice for powering electronic devices due to their high energy density and long lifespan. However, these batteries contain significant stored energy and must be handled with care. Improper use can result in serious injury, property damage, or death. Please read the following safety information carefully and in full before using any lithium-ion battery product supplied by Project Lithium Limited.
Safety Instructions
1. Use the Correct Charger
Always use a charger specifically designed and rated for your lithium-ion battery pack. Using an incompatible, uncertified, or damaged charger can cause the battery to overheat, vent toxic gases, catch fire, or explode. Do not use damaged or frayed charging cables. If in doubt, contact Project Lithium Limited before charging.
2. Do Not Overcharge
Overcharging a lithium-ion battery can cause thermal runaway, leading to fire or explosion. Always disconnect the charger once the battery is fully charged. Do not leave batteries charging overnight, unattended, or beyond the manufacturer’s recommended charge time.
3. Do Not Expose to Extreme Temperatures
Lithium-ion batteries must be stored and operated within their rated temperature range. Do not expose batteries to extreme heat (including direct sunlight, vehicle interiors, or near heat sources) or extreme cold. Temperature extremes degrade battery chemistry, reduce capacity, and increase the risk of fire or rupture.
4. Keep Away from Water and Moisture
Do not expose lithium-ion batteries to water, rain, high humidity, or any liquid. Water ingress can cause short-circuiting, corrosion, thermal runaway, fire, or explosion. If a battery has been exposed to liquid, do not use it. Isolate it safely and contact Project Lithium Limited for guidance. Do not attempt to dry or recharge a water-damaged battery.
5. Do Not Puncture or Damage the Battery
Do not puncture, crush, drop, modify, or disassemble the battery in any way. Physical damage can cause internal short-circuits leading to fire, explosion, or release of toxic materials. If a battery is visibly damaged — including dents, swelling, cracks, or leaking — discontinue use immediately, isolate the battery in a non-flammable environment, and contact Project Lithium Limited for safe disposal guidance.
6. Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets
Lithium-ion batteries are not toys. Keep all battery products out of reach of children and pets at all times. If a battery or battery component is swallowed, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
7. Store Safely
Store batteries in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location away from flammable materials. Do not store batteries in vehicles, confined spaces, or near sleeping areas. Long-term storage should be at a partial state of charge (approximately 40–60%) as recommended by the battery manufacturer.
8. Do Not Attempt Repairs or Modifications
Do not attempt to repair, rewire, modify, or repurpose battery packs unless you are a qualified professional. Unauthorised modifications void any warranty and create serious safety risks. Contact Project Lithium Limited for all service and repair inquiries.
What Can Happen During a Battery Failure
Lithium-ion battery failures are rare but can be serious. Understanding the risks helps users respond appropriately.
Thermal Runaway is a self-sustaining chemical reaction that occurs when a battery cell overheats beyond a critical threshold. It can be triggered by overcharging, physical damage, short-circuiting, or manufacturing defects. Once initiated, thermal runaway can spread rapidly to adjacent cells and is extremely difficult to stop.
Consequences of a battery failure may include:
- Fire — Lithium-ion battery fires burn at extremely high temperatures and can reignite after appearing to be extinguished. Standard water-based firefighting methods may be ineffective or dangerous.
- Explosion — Rapid gas build-up inside a cell can cause the battery casing to rupture or explode violently, projecting sharp debris.
- Toxic gas and smoke — Battery failure releases hazardous gases including hydrogen fluoride, carbon monoxide, and other toxic compounds. Exposure can cause serious respiratory injury. Evacuate the area immediately and do not re-enter without proper ventilation and safety equipment.
- Electrolyte leakage — A damaged or failed cell may leak flammable and corrosive electrolyte. Avoid skin and eye contact. If contact occurs, flush with large amounts of water and seek medical attention.
- Structural damage — Battery fires generate intense, localised heat capable of causing significant damage to property.
If a battery failure occurs:
- Do not touch or move the battery if it is actively on fire or venting.
- Evacuate the area immediately.
- Call 111 (New Zealand emergency services).
- If safe to do so, remove nearby flammable materials and use a Class D or dry chemical fire extinguisher — never use water directly on a lithium fire.
- Contact Project Lithium Limited after the incident: sales@projectlithium.co.nz
Liability Disclaimer
The use of lithium-ion battery products supplied by Project Lithium Limited is at the sole risk of the purchaser and end user. By taking possession of, installing, charging, or using any battery product supplied by Project Lithium Limited, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to comply with all safety instructions in this document and any additional instructions provided with the product.
Project Lithium Limited, its directors, officers, employees, agents, and affiliates shall not be liable for any injury, death, property damage, loss, or consequential damages arising from:
- Failure to follow the safety instructions in this document;
- Use of the battery for purposes other than its intended and rated application;
- Use of incompatible charging equipment or accessories;
- Physical damage, modification, or tampering with the battery;
- Exposure of the battery to water, moisture, extreme temperatures, or hazardous environments;
- Storage or transport that does not comply with applicable regulations and these instructions;
- Any other misuse, neglect, or user error.
Limitation of Liability
To the maximum extent permitted by applicable New Zealand law, the total aggregate liability of Project Lithium Limited and its directors, officers, agents, employees, subsidiaries, and affiliates — whether in contract, tort (including negligence), statute, or otherwise — arising out of or in connection with the supply or use of any battery product shall not exceed NZD $1,000,000 (one million New Zealand dollars) in respect of any one occurrence or series of occurrences attributable to one source or original cause.
Nothing in this disclaimer limits or excludes liability for death or personal injury caused by Project Lithium Limited’s negligence, fraud, or any other liability that cannot be limited or excluded by law, including under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 or the Contract and Commercial Law Act 2017. These safety instructions do not affect your statutory rights.
Indemnity
Except where prohibited by law, by using any battery product supplied by Project Lithium Limited you agree to indemnify and hold harmless Project Lithium Limited and its directors, officers, agents, employees, subsidiaries, and affiliates from any actions, claims, losses, damages, liabilities, and expenses (including legal fees) arising out of your use of the product or your failure to comply with these safety instructions.
Applicable Law
These safety instructions and any associated liability terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand.
Contact
For product support, safety concerns, or disposal enquiries:
Project Lithium Limited Glen Eden, Auckland, New Zealand Email: sales@projectlithium.co.nz Website: projectlithium.co.nz
This document should be retained for the life of the product.