Guidelines for Playing Battery Challenge

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, one area that requires careful consideration is the transportation of lithium-ion batteries. This article explores the intricacies of this issue, highlighting the challenges faced by various stakeholders and the regulations that govern this critical process.

Across the globe, national legislations vary significantly, with some countries managing multiple regulations due to different legal jurisdictions. For instance, in Belgium, four distinct laws govern the transport of waste batteries, each applicable within specific geographic territories.

The complexities of moving batteries are further compounded by the need for accurate differentiation between safe and unsafe batteries for transport. Misclassification can lead to incorrect packaging, posing potential risks. Glass, an industry expert, underscores this issue, emphasizing the need for vigilance.

Kuehne + Nagel, a leading logistics company, addresses these complexities through its KN BatteryChain service. This service employs specially trained battery experts and boasts a SHQE-audited Lithium-ion Battery Specialist licence, ensuring compliance with stringent standards.

Investments in safe battery storage are often perceived as risky due to the uncertainty surrounding upcoming regulations, argues Douven, another industry voice. This apprehension is particularly relevant considering the rapid changes in battery technologies, materials, and power densities, as highlighted by Parker.

European standards for the transport of dangerous goods, including lithium-ion batteries, are comprehensive. They encompass the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR), the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID), and IMDG Code Amendment 39-18 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Each lithium-ion battery shipment must be accompanied by a dangerous goods transport document, signed by the shipper for sea and air transport. Packaging requirements are stringent, mandating specific inner and outer transport casing, gas venting apparatus, protection from excessive vibration and movement, and other characteristics. Cells/batteries must also be packaged separately to prevent short circuits.

Air transport regulations are stricter, with additional marking, limitations on battery charge level, and prohibitions on the transport of defective or damaged batteries. Employers handling large quantities of lithium-ion batteries require qualified staff with dangerous goods handling certifications.

Lithium-ion batteries are designated as Class 9 dangerous goods, according to the UN Model Regulations. However, existing regulations only stipulate the minimum transport requirements, leaving room for improvement and evolution.

Logistics Service Providers (LSPs) face unique challenges when moving lithium batteries. These include a lack of awareness of applicable legislation, high costs of meeting packaging, inspection, skilled labor, and certification requirements, and dealing with constantly evolving standards.

Thermal runaway, a potential hazard associated with moving EV batteries, can result in fire, explosions, the release of toxic and corrosive materials, electric shock, and high-velocity projectiles from the cell. This hazard is caused by short circuits, contact between batteries, conductive materials, or excessive movement leading to damage.

The Shipper's Declaration provides critical information to the carrier about the nature of the goods, and the shipper certifies that the batteries have been packaged, labelled and declared in accordance with the international regulations.

The national authorities responsible for issuing dangerous goods handling certificates for logistics providers vary by European country. These agencies are typically government bodies related to transport, industry, or safety regulation. For example, in Germany, certifications and training related to dangerous goods are issued by organizations such as VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH in cooperation with CFPA Europe, which provides standardized training recognized across the EU.

The European standards for the transport and storage of lithium-ion batteries are based on the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards. Douven notes that the number of amendments relating to lithium batteries has doubled in the last year, with many being considered or introduced to the UN's Transport of Dangerous Goods charter.

Parker advises organizations to adopt strong governance processes with dedicated resources to track and validate standards and continue to develop close relationships with shipping partners to ensure compliance. In the face of rapid technological change, continuous evolution of battery transport regulations for safety is essential.