Amid growing public concern following the recent lithium battery manufacturing plant fire disaster in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, Kim Jaebyung, head of the Gyeongnam Fire Department, visited a local cathode material production company for secondary batteries to provide on-site safety guidance.
On the 2nd, Chief Kim visited the JS Tech Yangsan Plant to ▲understand the material characteristics of raw materials and products ▲inspect the manufacturing process and storage conditions ▲check building features and evacuation routes ▲provide guidance on initial response methods according to Material Safety Data Sheets, and suggested fire safety measures tailored to the site conditions.
He emphasized, "Raising fire safety awareness among all employees is key to preventing major fires," and urged, "Please ensure thorough autonomous safety management."
Jaebyung Kim, Director of Gyeongnam Fire Headquarters (third from the left), is touring the interior of the JS Tech Yangsan factory with factory officials. Photo by Gyeongnam Fire Headquarters
According to the Gyeongnam Fire Department, the JS Tech Yangsan Plant processes lithium hydroxide, a core raw material for secondary batteries, using patented technology and produces 6,000 tons annually.
Neither the raw material lithium hydroxide nor the finished product anhydrous lithium hydroxide are regulated under the Hazardous Materials Safety Control Act, but in the event of a fire, they can generate toxic substances and serve as agents for fire spread.
To prevent related accidents, the department is conducting an emergency fire safety inspection of battery-related manufacturing plants in the province until the 9th.
In addition, the department plans to focus on educating workers, including foreigners, on initial fire response methods, evacuation, and escape procedures.
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