Guidelines for shipment of lithium-ion batteries.
A Lithium-Ion or Li-ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery which uses the reversible reduction of lithium ions to store energy. Lithium-Ion batteries are used in various products such as electronics, toys, wireless headphones, handheld power tools, small and large appliances, electric vehicles, and electrical energy storage systems.
Safety concerns have become a major impediment to the widespread use of Lithium-Ion batteries. If not handled, packaged, classified, and declared properly, the shipment of these batteries can pose a substantial risk to people, property, and the environment.
Industry bodies CINS Network, ICHCA International, IG P&I Clubs, and TT Club have united to produce “Guidelines for safe transport of Lithium-ion batteries in containers”. As a result of the guidelines, a safer supply chain can be assured in the future to prevent the increasing risks caused by the transport of lithium-ion batteries by sea.
The IMDG Code, 2022 edition, defines what type of packaging one should use for Lithium – Ion batteries classified as dangerous goods. Compliant packaging needs to be used for the transport of Lithium – Ion batteries to protect the cargo from mechanical damage or abuse that could trigger fire conditions during the voyage.
In addition, the guidelines state that packaging of Lithium – Ion batteries should comprise of the following:
- Ambient temperature during the planned voyage
- Ingress protection, especially on board ships
- State of charge of the battery
- Availability of the battery management system
- Availability of a safety venting device
- Whether battery terminals are covered and protected – should always be protected against seawater ingress
The full guidelines can be found at https://www.cinsnet.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/CSAR-101A_Lithium-IonBatteries-Guidelines-24-March-2023.pdf. Subject to stakeholder feedback, the document will be reviewed again in September 2023 and is expected to be followed by three further documents – regulatory compliance check-lists, risk assessment and emergency response, and training and educational awareness.
The safe carriage of lithium-ion batteries should be reviewed by those handling, storing, or transporting these batteries.
The content of this article is intended only to provide a summary and general overview on matters of interest. It is not intended to be comprehensive nor does it constitute legal or other professional advice. You should seek legal or other professional advice before acting or relying on any of the content.