Energizer, one of the world’s largest manufacturers and distributors of batteries, has announced the launch of the world’s only coin lithium battery that prevents ingestion burns if swallowed.

Energizer Ultimate Child Shield’ coin lithium batteries (available in sizes 2032, 2025 and 2016) are said to be the result of years of research and development. They are made with a proprietary, premium titanium alloy that stops any chemical reaction that could cause burning before it ever starts.

As coin lithium batteries power more everyday devices – from key fobs and remotes to tracking tags and toys – their presence in Australian households continues to grow. However, this increased usage has been accompanied by rising safety concerns. In Australia, an estimated 20 children per week present to a hospital emergency department suspected of having ingested or inserted a coin lithium battery (Kidsafe Qld).

Theo Mallos, paramedic and co-founder of Rescueblue, says these situations can become life threatening. Tissue damage can begin in as little as 15 minutes.

“It’s encouraging to see innovations like Energizer Ultimate Child Shield, designed with a safety feature which prevent ingestion burns,” he said.

Safety features

In addition to preventing the chemical reaction that could cause burning, Energizer Ultimate Child Shield includes a number of additional safety feature:

• Child-resistant packaging: Energizer was the first brand to launch child resistant packaging, to help prevent children from accessing the batteries in the package.
• Non-toxic bitter coating: Energizer Ultimate Child Shield coin lithium batteries include a non-toxic bitter coating on the cell that helps discourage ingestion.
• World’s only colour alert technology: activates once saliva interacts with the battery, visibly dyeing the mouth blue to alert caregivers to act fast.

Energizing safe solutions

“As coin lithium batteries play an increasingly important role in powering everyday devices, it’s crucial we continue to innovate,” said Amanda Broderick – Senior Director, International Marketing at Energizer Holdings.

“Energizer Ultimate Child Shield does exactly that – it includes a revolutionary technology that eliminates the risk of ingestion burns, if a battery is swallowed by a child.”

Alongside the development of battery technologies, ensuring batteries are safely stored, handled and disposed of in the home remains critical. Caregivers are encouraged to keep both new and used batteries secured in child-resistant storage, out of sight and reach. Used batteries should be handled with care, taped on both sides and disposed of or recycled promptly in a location inaccessible to children.

“Creating spaces for children starts with awareness,” said Dr Emma Watkins, Australian children’s entertainer.

“It can be easy to overlook how readily coin lithium batteries can make their way into the home. Simple steps like safe storage and proper disposal, alongside innovations from brands like Energizer, can make a meaningful difference in helping protect little ones.”

Energizer Ultimate Child Shield coin lithium batteries are available in leading stores and supermarkets nationwide.