EMS 3.1.1

Steps to EV-Proof Your Facility

As EVs become increasingly prevalent in the market, facilities must adapt to safely and effectively handle damaged or end-of-life EVs. Conducting a thorough facility inspection is a critical step in this process. By proactively identifying and addressing risks, facilities can ensure the health and safety of their workers, protect the environment, and position themselves as leaders in the evolving automotive industry. A well-organized and EV-ready facility demonstrates not only a commitment to safety but also the capability to meet the demands of a rapidly growing market segment.

Facilities should follow these guideline steps.

General Facility Assessment
• Identify areas where damaged EVs will be received, stored, and potentially dismantled.
• Ensure the facility layout minimizes risks of hazardous run-off and fire spread.
• Assess ventilation, fire suppression systems, and isolation capabilities for vehicles
Evaluate and Mitigate Risks
• Assess the likelihood and impact of thermal runaway, battery leakage, and electrical hazards.
• Plan for containment of hazardous waste, including procedures for managing battery fires and chemical spills.
• Develop lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) protocols to prevent unintended energy discharge.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
• Review the premises for potential contamination risks, including the release
of hazardous materials into soil, water, or air.
• Ensure systems are in place to contain and manage run-off, including secondary
containment systems for battery fluids.
Training and Awareness
• Provide specialized training for all employees handling damaged EVs or performing dismantling tasks.
• Incorporate EV-specific hazards into regular safety training programs.
Facility Layout and Equipment
• Designate isolation bays for high-risk vehicles, equipped with fireproof barriers and monitoring systems.
• Equip storage areas with temperature monitoring and fire detection systems.
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