Installing an EV charging station may seem like a completed job once the equipment is up and running. But what happens if an incident occurs years later? In this article, Bruno Lucarelli explores how electrical contractors could face liability long after an installation is finished.
Bruno examines the safety considerations that installers should not overlook, from emergency shutoff access and fire mitigation equipment to documenting potential hazards and reviewing insurance coverage.
⚡Inside The Article
Expert Perspective: Bruno Lucarelli on EV Charging Station Liability
Understand the risks of subrogation.
Contractors may be drawn into liability claims years after completing an installation. Understanding this potential exposure is an important part of protecting your business.
Recognize the dangers of EV battery fires.
Lithium-ion battery fires can release hazardous gases and create serious risks for the public and first responders. Bruno highlights why fire safety considerations matter at charging sites.
Document missing safety features.
Accessible emergency shutoff buttons can play an important role in reducing potential harm. Bruno emphasizes the importance of identifying and documenting missing safety measures.
Evaluate fire mitigation equipment carefully.
Not every fire suppression solution is appropriate for an EV battery fire. Contractors should consider the potential consequences of recommending unsuitable equipment.
Consult local authorities and review coverage.
Coordinating with the Fire Marshal can help clarify site-specific safety expectations. Reviewing lithium-ion battery fire coverage with an insurance broker is another important consideration.
P.S. If your company installs EV charging stations or manages electrical infrastructure projects, Bruno's article raises important questions about site safety, documentation, and long-term liability.