Angelo Zandona, owner of Keystone Fire Consultants, was recently featured in TechBullion discussing the role of NFPA 68 and NFPA 69 in Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) design.
In the article, Angelo Zandona examines the explosion hazards associated with lithium-ion battery systems and explains why proper deflagration analysis is a critical component of modern energy storage projects. As battery storage deployments continue to expand, project developers, engineers, and authorities having jurisdiction are placing greater emphasis on fire and life safety planning during the design phase.
The TechBullion feature highlights the differences between NFPA 68 and NFPA 69, two important standards used to address explosion hazards in battery energy storage facilities. NFPA 68 focuses on deflagration venting, while NFPA 69 emphasizes explosion prevention through active monitoring and ventilation systems.
According to Angelo Zandona, successful BESS projects require a thorough understanding of battery chemistry, enclosure design, gas generation characteristics, and site-specific risks. The article also explores why many utility-scale projects benefit from combining passive and active protection strategies to provide multiple layers of safety.
The discussion further covers the importance of UL 9540A testing, permitting considerations, insurance requirements, and comprehensive hazard analyses. These factors play an important role in helping battery energy storage projects achieve regulatory compliance while maintaining high safety standards.
Through Keystone Fire Consultants, Angelo Zandona provides fire and life safety consulting services for energy and infrastructure projects. His work helps developers, engineers, and project stakeholders address complex fire protection challenges while supporting safe and successful project execution.