Powering Up: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety with Brian O’Connor, P.E.

In our latest episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel sits down with Brian O’Connor, a Senior Engineer in the Technical Services department at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), to discuss lithium-ion batteries. 🔋

From powering our everyday devices like our cell phones, laptops, e-bikes, and more, lithium-ion batteries are everywhere. ⚠️ But do you know the warning signs of battery fires? Or how to stay safe when using them? Brian shares expert insights into what lithium-ion batteries are, where they’re used, and most importantly, how to protect yourself and others from potential hazards. 

Listen now to power up your knowledge and stay safe! 

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#FireSafety #BatterySafety #FireProtection #LithiumIonBatteries #BurnSurvivor #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast 

 

Meet Our Guest 

Brian O’Connor is a Senior Engineer in the Technical Services department at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and a Past President of the New England Chapter of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers. A licensed professional engineer in Texas and Massachusetts, Brian holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rowan University and a Master’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. His expertise spans batteries, water-based fire protection systems, healthcare facilities, and fire extinguishers, with a focus on advancing fire safety through technical guidance and industry leadership. 

Links 

• Learn more about lithium-ion batteries and how to stay safe: https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/lithium-ion-batteries 
• Learn more about electric vehicle safety: https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/electrical/electric-vehicles 
• Explore NFPA’s training opportunities: https://www.nfpa.org/for-professionals/training-for-me/NFPA-Training 
• Explore NFPA’s list of codes and standards: https://www.nfpa.org/for-professionals/codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards 

 

Podcast Sponsor 

Today’s podcast is powered by the National Fire Protection Association! NFPA is a nonprofit that seeks to save lives and reduce loss with information, knowledge, & passion. Learn more about fire safety and explore their educational resources by visiting www.nfpa.org.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at [e-mail].