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Lithium Batteries: A guide to safe transportation, storage and disposal

Lithium batteries are a common feature in our modern world, powering everything from mobile phones to vehicles.

 

Given the potential safety and environmental risks posed by batteries, we’re regularly asked about the key requirements for safe transportation, storage and disposal.

 

In this article we will look at the key requirements to minimise risk and ensure compliance.

 

Transportation

 

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.

 

The rules for transporting dangerous goods are complex, with duties placed on those who send, transport, and receive dangerous goods. Requirements include strict special instructions and packaging instructions, which must be applied when transporting batteries. 

 

The appointment of a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA) is required for any activities involving the transportation of dangerous goods.

 

General requirements for shipping and transporting batteries include that they must:

  • be labelled correctly, using the relevant battery label based on the UN classification, and where required, a class 9 dangerous goods label;
  • only be transported by those licensed if classed as dangerous goods; and
  • be carried in accordance with legal requirements, adhering to special provisions and packaging instructions.

 

The UN classifications for the transport of lithium batteries are:

  • Lithium ion batteries
    • UN 3480 – batteries shipped by themselves
    • UN 3481 – batteries shipped in equipment, or packed with equipment
  • Lithium metal batteries
    • UN 3090 – batteries shipped by themselves
    • UN 3091 – batteries shipped in equipment, or packed with equipment

Countries have implemented their own national laws covering the carriage of dangerous goods, with rules varying based on the mode of transport. However, the overall requirements are similar, based on international codes, such as the Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air.

Relevant legislation for the transport of dangerous goods by road includes:

Strict rules apply for carrying batteries on aircraft, especially passenger-carrying aircraft, International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidance can be found here.

 

Storage

 

General health and safety and environmental requirements apply for storing batteries.

It’s recommended to store lithium batteries:

  • in limited quantities where possible;
  • in a location where they are away from other hazards and unlikely to be impacted by moving objects and people;
  • out of direct sunlight in a dry environment, at a temperature between 20°C to 25°C; and
  • with a charge between 40-60% (fully charged or depleted batteries are more unstable).

Depending on the type, capacity and volume of lithium batteries stored you may also need to consider:

  • specific signage and additional training for employees and others; and
  • procedures to be taken in the event of an emergency, including liaison with emergency services.

 

Disposal

 

All end-of-life batteries are classed as hazardous waste in the UK and EU, as such they should never be disposed of in general waste.

Portable batteries and batteries which cannot be removed from waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) should be disposed of:

  • through a licenced waste carrier;
  • directly at a hazardous waste recycling centre; or
  • via their distributor where they offer a take back scheme.

When storing and disposing of waste batteries, they should be protected from damage and insulated to prevent short-circuits.