Search

Lithium Battery Updates in the 2022 IATA DGR

Posted on 8/27/2021 by Roseanne Bottone and Roger Marks

IATA’s 63rd Edition Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) manual will incorporate two major changes for lithium battery air shippers. The changes impact IATA DGR Packing Instructions 965, 966, 968, and 969.

The new Edition of the IATA DGR takes effect on January 1, 2022.

Lithium Batteries or Cells Shipped Separately

One change will impact shippers of standalone lithium-ion and lithium-metal cells and batteries (UN 3480 and UN 3090). "Standalone" batteries are those not shipped "in equipment" or "with equipment." 

IATA removed the provisions for Section II lithium batteries from the Packing Instructions (PI) associated with these shipments, PI 965 and PI 968. Beginning in 2022, lithium battery shipments that fit the criteria for “Section II” must be shipped using Section IA or IB of the appropriate Packing Instruction.

Transition Period for Shippers

Shippers may follow the provisions for Section II lithium cells and batteries until March 31, 2022. After this three-month transition period, batteries prepared according to Section II of PI 965 or 968 will not be authorized in air transport. 

What Are Section II Lithium Batteries or Cells?

“Section II” refers to smaller lithium batteries that qualify for relief from some of the most burdensome IATA DGR air shipping rules.

The thresholds for Section II lithium batteries are: 
 
  Lithium-metal (UN 3090) Lithium-ion (UN 3480)
Cell Not more than 1g Not more than 20 Wh
Battery Not more than 2g Not more than 100 Wh
 
If this announcement from IATA gives you déjà vu, remember that FedEx and UPS instituted similar policies concerning Section II lithium batteries for their shipping customers in 2017.

To reflect the deletion of Section II from PI 965 and PI 968, IATA will also update various DGR regulations concerning training, special provisions, hazard communications, and more that made mention of Section II provisions.

Lithium Batteries or Cells Packed with Equipment

For lithium batteries packed with equipment, IATA revised the wording of Packing Instructions 966 and 969 to clarify the allowed packing options.

See more changes for the 2022 IATA DGR here.  

Charging Ahead to 2023

The new DGR Edition includes Appendix I, which gives us a preview of changes planned for next year’s DGR, the 64th Edition, that will take effect on January 1, 2023.

In 2023, equipment that contain only lithium button cells, like circuit boards, will be excluded from the Test Summary requirement added in 2020. In addition, IATA will remove the requirement for a telephone number to appear on the lithium battery mark. This change will roll in over a four-year transition period, during which shippers can continue to use the existing mark.

Flexible Lithium Battery Training for 2022 

Organizations big and small are using online hazardous materials and safety training to maintain a flexible, efficient shipping operation in 2022. Employees learn to perform their jobs in full compliance with complex US and international regulations for classifying, packaging, and documenting lithium battery shipments.

Learn online, at your own pace, or join us for a live, instructor-led webinar in October. 

Shipping Lithium Batteries Training

*US DOT requires hazmat training for all "hazmat employees" once every three years—including staff who prepare lithium battery shipments.

**For air shippers, the IATA DGR requires hazmat training once every 24 months. 

Tags: hazmat air shipping, IATA DGR, lithium batteries, lithium batteries by air, PI 968

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

I was recently offered an opportunity to take my training through another company, but I politely declined. I only attend Lion Technology workshops.

Stephanie Gilliam

Material Production/Logistics Manager

Given the choice, I would do all coursework this way. In-person courses go very fast without the opportunity to pause or repeat anything.

Ellen Pelton

Chemical Laboratory Manager

I have been to other training companies, but Lion’s material is much better and easier to understand.

Mark Abell

Regional Manager

Best instructor ever! I was going to take my DOT training w/a different provider, but based on this presentation, I will also be doing my DOT training w/Lion!

Donna Moot

Hazardous Waste Professional

Very witty instructor, made the long times sitting bearable. One of the few training courses I can say I actually enjoyed.

John Hutchinson

Senior EHS Engineer

Lion provided an excellent introduction to environmental regulations, making the transition to a new career as an EHS specialist less daunting of a task. Drinking from a fire hose when the flow of water is lessened, is much more enjoyable!

Stephanie Weathers

SHE Specialist

I really enjoyed this training. Even after years on both sides of the comprehension coin, I find myself still learning! The quality of the delivery exceeded much of the training I have received in the past.

Neil Ozonur

Safety Officer

The instructor's energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge of the subject make the class a great learning experience!

Brian Martinez

Warehouse Operator

These are the best classes I attend each year. I always take something away and implement improvements at my sites.

Kim Racine

EH&S Manager

Amazing instructor; real-life examples. Lion training gets better every year!

Frank Papandrea

Environmental Manager

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Four key considerations to help you maximize the convenience and quality of your experience with online training.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.