Here We Go Again! Continuing Challenges in the Ever-Changing World of Lithium Battery Shipping

Improper classification and preparation of lithium batteries and battery-containing devices for shipment continues to be a widespread problem and due to the high risk of such shipments aboard aircraft, remains high on the FAA’s hierarchy of enforcement priorities. To make matters worse, the applicable regulations are confusing and change regularly, and individual operators impose their own subtle variations to the rules.

The objective of the presentation is to give environmental, health and safety professionals insight into:

a)      how these battery shipping requirements may impact numerous areas of their operation- outside those traditionally under EH&S oversight, including shipping/receiving, research & development, laboratories, materials management, and information technology; and

b)      the complex decision-making algorithm necessary to successfully develop a compliant shipping SOP for a variety of lithium batteries and configurations

Drawing upon observations from over 23 years of hazardous materials auditing and training, the presenter will provide an overview of the DOT, ICAO/IATA, FedEx and UPS requirements applicable to lithium battery shipments, including recent ICAO/IATA 30% power drainage requirements for lithium ion batteries. 

Additionally, this program will identify common missteps made by employers, such as not identifying hazmat employees, relying on third-party SOPs, assuming small batteries are exempted, assuming incoming shipments are compliant when preparing returns, and not receiving operator approval for certain battery shipments.