On 2 July 2026, a critical incident occurred in France. A cover on one of our ‘speleo’ aluminium battery cases came loose and, due to the specific configuration of the site, the battery slipped out of the case and fell into a 30-metre-deep shaft – the impact caused mechanical damage to a battery cell and, after 10 minutes, the battery burnt out. Those present were able to get to safety but had to wait several hours due to the toxic gases produced by such a battery fire. Fortunately, no one was injured, as there was sufficient time to react appropriately.
video documentary:
The most likely cause of this incident:
In 2009, we had a batch of battery casings in which a groove had been milled too shallow. We discovered this at the time and reworked most of these casings. It is possible that a few of these casings are still in circulation (including second-hand ones). We are therefore issuing this appeal – please check your torch immediately to ensure that the cover is properly secured when correctly fitted and the knurled nuts are tightened firmly. If a correctly secured lid can be pulled out easily, then you have a faulty casing, which we will of course replace immediately!
Battery casings manufactured after 2009 are NOT affected by this, and it only concerns the ‘speleo’ battery casing!
This incident clearly illustrates the enormous amount of energy contained in these cells. As a manufacturer, I bear a great deal of responsibility, and the batteries must meet the relevant requirements and pass safety tests – but it is not the case that the product user bears no responsibility whatsoever. If you notice a fault or a problem, please react immediately – we’re happy to help! Unfortunately, we see people tinkering with batteries time and time again… this case also shows that this is not a good idea at all.
Rolf Siegenthaler, owner of Scurion GmbH
P.S.: Although this battery has not been tampered with by its user, we regularly remind people that attempting to tinker with this type of equipment yourself is a bad idea.