Safety in Our DNA: How Proterra’s Fire Brigade Leads Industry Standards 

In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicle battery technology, safety isn't just a checkbox—it's woven into the very fabric of our operations at Proterra. As we pioneer the shift to zero-emission transportation, we recognize that innovative safety measures must keep pace with our technological advancements. At the heart of this commitment stands our in-house Fire Brigade, a team whose impact extends far beyond emergency response. 

More Than Firefighters: Proterra's Comprehensive Safety Team 

Proterra's volunteer-based Fire Brigade exemplifies our company's dedication to safety and the Proterran spirit of our employees. While the name might suggest a singular focus on fire response, our brigade members are trained professionals prepared to handle a diverse range of emergencies—from medical incidents to hazardous material spills. 

As Nick Enk, a lead maintenance technician and Fire Brigade captain explains, "If something goes wrong, I'm there to help with the situation, no matter how big or small." This comprehensive approach ensures that our Greer, South Carolina Powered One facility maintains the highest safety standards across all operations. 

The brigade consists of nine professionally trained members, a chief, 2 captains and 6 fire fighters. Their all-risk capability means they're equipped to handle: 

• Fire incidents 

• Medical emergencies 

• Hazardous materials spills 

• Service calls 

• Other safety-related situations 

Why An In-House Fire Brigade Matters 

For a company manufacturing high-voltage battery systems, having specialized emergency responders on-site provides critical advantages: 

1. Specialized Knowledge 

Our Fire Brigade members understand the unique properties of lithium-ion batteries and the specific safety protocols needed when working with them. This specialized knowledge simply isn't available through standard emergency response training. 

Phil Challinor, Proterra's Fire Chief, brings over 25 years of professional firefighting experience along with extensive training in specialized emergency response. His background, which includes military service working with aircraft electrical systems, makes him uniquely qualified to lead our battery safety initiatives. 

2. Immediate Response 

When dealing with battery-related incidents, response time is crucial. Having trained professionals already on-site means potential issues can be addressed within minutes, often preventing small problems from escalating. 

3. Tailored Equipment and Protocols 

Our Fire Brigade uses specialized equipment specifically designed for battery safety, including: 

• Salt baths with greater than 5% salinity for cell and module containment 

• Thermal imaging cameras for monitoring temperature 

• Gas detection equipment for monitoring hydrogen fluoride and other gases 

• Specialized PPE including thermal protective PPE and high-voltage protective equipment 

These resources, combined with our detailed incident safety plans for cells, modules, and complete battery packs, create a comprehensive safety system tailored to our specific needs. 

Beyond Our Walls: Community Impact and Industry Leadership 

The influence of Proterra's Fire Brigade extends well beyond our manufacturing floor. As leaders in the commercial and industrial EV market, we recognize our responsibility to share knowledge and help develop industry-wide safety standards. 

Training Local Fire Departments 

Our Fire Brigade regularly conducts training sessions with local fire departments, sharing specialized knowledge about battery technology and response techniques. This collaborative approach helps ensure that community first responders are prepared for the growing presence of electric vehicles in their jurisdictions. 

Shaping Policy and Guidelines 

Proterra actively participates in the development of safety standards and regulations for the EV battery industry. Our Fire Brigade's practical experience provides valuable insights for these discussions, helping to create guidelines that are both effective and implementable. 

As Phil Challinor notes, "We have a duty to proactively ensure the safety of the market." This includes participating in the development of standards like NFPA 800, which will help prevent fires and explosions involving batteries throughout their lifecycle. 

Continuous Learning and Improvement 

Safety in a rapidly evolving field requires constant learning and adaptation. Our Fire Brigade undergoes rigorous and continuous training, including: 

• Hands-on training at the State Fire Academy 

• Regular physical assessments 

• Week-long industrial firefighting courses 

• Specialized hazmat training 

This commitment to continuous improvement ensures our team stays at the forefront of battery safety practices. 

Victor Medina, a Remanufacturing Technician and Fire Brigade captain, describes the team as "essentially a brother and sisterhood. We're very close and fully support each other in everything we do." This strong bond and shared commitment to safety create a foundation for excellence. 

The Bigger Picture: Leading the Industry Transition 

The electrification of transportation represents one of the most significant technological shifts of our time. As Proterra leads this transition in the commercial and industrial sector, we recognize that safety innovations must accompany technological advances. 

Our comprehensive approach to battery safety—from design and engineering to production and emergency response—demonstrates how safety considerations can be integrated throughout an organization's operations. 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Battery Safety 

As battery technology continues to evolve, so too will our safety practices. Proterra remains committed to advancing battery safety through research, development, and collaboration. For Proterra, safety isn't just about compliance or risk management—it's about leadership and responsibility. By maintaining our unwavering commitment to safety, we help ensure that the transition to zero-emission transportation happens not just quickly, but safely and sustainably. 

Our Fire Brigade stands as a visible symbol of this commitment—professionals dedicated to protecting our team, our community, and our shared future.