In order to ensure maximum safety when transporting lithium-ion batteries, they are classified as miscellaneous dangerous goods (Class 9) and subject to international regulations.
Lithium ion batteries with a nominal capacity exceeding 100 Wh and lithium metal batteries containing over 2g of lithium are classed as dangerous goods (Class 9), as such there are strict requirements for transporting them via road, air, sea and rail. Simplified requirements apply for other lithium batteries that do not reach these thresholds.
Are lithium and sodium ion batteries a dangerous goods commodity?
Although some lithium and sodium ion batteries are eligible for transportation as Section II and exempted from certain labelling, packing and documentation requirements, these batteries are still regulated as a dangerous goods commodity, and subject to all other requirements, including dangerous goods reporting.
Are lithium ion batteries subject to dangerous goods training requirements?
Shippers of lithium or sodium ion batteries prepared in accordance with Section II of the lithium battery packing instructions are not subject to the formal dangerous goods training requirements set out in DGR 1.5. However, persons preparing such shipments must be provided with “adequate instruction” as described in DGR 1.6.
Lithium batteries fall into two broad classifications; lithium metal batteries and lithium ion batteries. Lithium metal batteries are generally non-rechargeable and contain metallic lithium. Lithium ion batteries contain lithium which is only present in an ionic form in the electrolyte and are rechargeable.
Other special provisions include small lithium-ion batteries, which may be exempt from certain regulatory requirements, but compliance with size and quantity limits is still essential. Strict adherence to dangerous goods regulations is imperative when shipping lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium batteries are being used more and more as technology grows and they are becoming more heavily regulated. Lithium batteries must be transported as dangerous goods and so they must follow the relevant mode regulations.