New DOT Lithium Battery Rules Near Final Stage

A new lithium battery rulemaking from the US DOT’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is nearing completion. The new rule, which will affect shipments of lithium batteries offered as standalone articles (e.g., not in or with equipment), has been received by the Office of Management and Budget for approval.

The new DOT lithium batteries rule closely mirrors requirements finalized at the international level by ICAO earlier this year and mandatory for air shippers as of April 1, 2016.

The new DOT lithium battery Interim Final Rule will:

• Prohibit the transport of standalone lithium ion cells and batteries as cargo on passenger aircraft.
• Limit the state-of-charge for lithium ion cells and batteries to 30%.
• Limit to no more than one package per shipment the number of packages that may be offered for current provisions for “small” or “excepted” lithium batteries.

More information the progress of the lithium battery Interim Final Rule is available here.

Live, Interactive Lithium Battery Shipper Training

Make sure you’re up to date on recent changes to the lithium battery shipping regulations for ground, air, and ocean shippers at the live, interactive and expert-led Shipping Lithium Batteries Webinar. 

The final session for 2016 is scheduled for November 8, and the 2017 schedule is in development now! Check this page for more information on lithium battery training for you and your team of shipping professionals. If you can't make the live webinar, the 24/7 online course Shipping Lithium Batteries is avaialble anytime, anywhere. 

Tags: 49CFR, hazmat shipping, lithium batteries, new rules