Search

ICAO DG Panel Backs Most Stringent Lithium Battery Requirements Yet

Posted on 10/29/2015 by Roger Marks

Reports from the annual International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Dangerous Goods Panel in Montreal, happening this week, suggest that ICAO is backing a plan to require lithium batteries to be shipped at a reduced state-of-charge as low as 30%. While Federal Aviation Administration test data shows that batteries shipped at a 30% state-of-charge are far less likely to be involved in a battery fire on board an aircraft, there are some logistical issues for manufacturers, suppliers, and other shippers to consider.

First, at a pre-ICAO meeting with US regulators in September, industry representatives with the Rechargeable Battery Association (PRBA) argued that shipping lithium batteries at a reduced state-of-charge can lead to accelerated physical and chemical degradation of the battery. In other words, these batteries will be less useful once they reach their destination.

Second, industry is concerned that a limitation on state-of-charge can only be realistically met by original manufacturers or major initial shippers. Other distributors in the supply chain, including retail shippers, may not have the expertise or equipment needed to verify state-of-charge before offering a shipment.

lithium metal button cell


The ICAO Dangerous Goods Panel’s lithium battery safety recommendations will be finalized at the end of this week and will eventually be incorporated into the ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods. These international Technical Instructions are used as a model for both the International Air Transport Associations Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and the US DOT’s 49 CFR Hazardous Materials Regulations.

For more on lithium battery transport safety recommendations that may be discussed at the Dangerous Goods Panel in Montreal, read our feature on the US DOT’s Pre-ICAO Lithium Battery Safety Meeting.

Expert Training on New Lithium Battery Rules

Learn the latest rules and fulfill the DOT, IATA, and IMO training requirements for shipping lithium batteries by ground, air, and vessel with the interactive Shipping Lithium Batteries Online Course. Complete your certification training at your own pace, from any Internet connection, 24/7, and get help from IT customer support 7 days a week.

Want live, instructor-led training? The live Shipping Lithium Batteries Webinar will be presented on November 10 and covers the latest rule changes that affect lithium battery ground, air, and ocean shippers, plus function-specific training on classifying, naming, packaging, marking, and labeling lithium batteries.

Enroll in the online course or webinar today and get free access to the new Lithium Battery Safety Online Course!

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Lion's course was superior to others I have taken in the past. Very clear in the presentation and the examples helped to explain the content presented.

George Bersik

Hazardous Waste Professional

The instructor was probably the best I ever had! He made the class enjoyable, was humorous at times, and very knowledgeable.

Mary Sue Michon

Environmental Administrator

The course was very well structured and covered the material in a clear, concise manner.

Ian Martinez

Hazmat Shipping Professional

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 can take what I learned in this workshop and apply it to everyday work and relate it to my activities.

Shane Hersh

Materials Handler

This is a very informative training compared to others. It covers everything I expect to learn and even a lot of new things.

Quatama Jackson

Waste Management Professional

As always, Lion never disappoints

Paul Resley

Environmental Coordinator

Lion courses are the standard to which all other workshops should strive for!

Brody Saleen

Registered Environmental Health Specialist

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

The instructor was very engaging and helped less experienced people understand the concepts.

Steve Gall

Safety Leader

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Shipping papers are a crucial part of safely shipping hazardous materials. See the top 5 mistakes shippers make on shipping papers, and how to avoid them.

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.