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Hactl opens Lithium Batteries Storage Zone

Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals (Hactl) has opened the Lithium Batteries Storage Zone, mitigating the risks of handling lithium batteries.

The Lithium Batteries Storage Zone is equipped with CO2 fire suppression systems and fire-proof partitions to separate lithium batteries from other shipments.

Fire extinguishers will help contain battery fires and reduce the risk of fires spreading.

The storage zone is clearly indicated by LED signage across its multiple floors to ensure batteries are stored properly and to make retrieval more efficient.

Hactl’s automated Box Storage System (BBS) has been re-programmed to store all stillages containing lithium batteries in positions which are more accessible for firefighting and isolated from other cargo types.

Wilson Kwong, Chief Executive of Hactl says that shipments containing lithium batteries are an important revenue stream, which come with well-known risks so every possible precaution must be taken.

He says, “This is why Hactl has already invested in an intelligent cargo thermal detection system in order to provide advance warning of any exceptional conditions that may indicate the impending risk of a battery fire. The new zone takes this proactive approach still further, ensuring that any battery fire can be effectively contained and then quickly extinguished.”