EMS 3.2.1 – Primary Objectives of a Secondary Inspection
EMS 3.2.1
Primary Objectives of a Secondary Inspection
The primary objectives of a secondary inspection include...
Detect Residual Energy in Battery Modules and Cells
• Even after an EV fire is extinguished or the vehicle is initially stabilized,
residual energy can remain in undamaged battery modules and cells.
This stranded energy poses a risk of reignition, particularly during the
critical first 24–48 hours of storage.
Confirm the Shutdown of the High-Voltage System
• A damaged high-voltage system can remain active even after an incident,
creating risks of electrocution or further battery instability.
• Secondary inspections ensure the high-voltage system has been properly
shut down, isolating it from the rest of the vehicle and rendering it
safe to handle.
Identify Hidden Damage to the Battery
• Secondary inspections allow for a thorough evaluation of the
battery pack and surrounding components to uncover hidden damage.
• Detecting these issues early is critical to preventing secondary hazards,
such as battery leakage or thermal runaway, and helps inform decisions
about repair, storage, or disposal.
Ensure the Vehicle is Safe to Handle, Process, or Move
• Secondary inspections verify that all safety protocols have been
followed and that the vehicle is stable enough for further handling.
• For high-risk vehicles, additional precautions such as isolation,
continued monitoring, or containment measures may still be required
before declaring the vehicle safe for inventory or processing.
Minimize Risks to Personnel and Facilities
• Secondary inspections play a vital role in ensuring the safety of
everyone involved in handling damaged EVs, including tow operators,
facility personnel, and emergency responders.
• A robust secondary inspection process also demonstrates a facility’s
commitment to industry best practices and compliance with evolving
safety standards.
