Li-ion Safe Air Travel with the U.S. Department of Transportation's Final Rule HM224I
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has just implemented a Final Rule (HM224I) that will ensure the safe transport of lithium batteries by air in accordance with the latest safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The new regulations will prohibit the transport of lithium-ion cells and batteries as cargo on passenger aircraft, restrict rechargeable lithium-ion batteries to no more than a 30 percent state of charge when shipped by air, improve the consistency of marking low-powered ("small") lithium batteries and limit their shipment to no more than one package per consignment or overpack.
These rules are intended to reduce risks associated with transporting these items, particularly for passenger aircraft. Lithium metal cells and batteries, primarily non-rechargeable, have always been prohibited from passenger shipment. But due to recent research into potential fire hazards posed by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries at full charge, they must adhere to a 30% SOC rule when shipped as standalone without equipment on board any aircraft. For those packages shipped with equipment, there is still a weight limitation per package that must be adhered to for them to be accepted for transport on passenger aircraft.
Shippers should also ensure that battery packages are marked properly according to the new regulations - standalone packages of lithium-ion batteries must now be marked with either the cargo aircraft only label as per ICAO or with text prohibiting shipment on passenger aircraft. This Final Rule will go into effect on January 20th, 2023, and will serve as an important step toward creating a safer atmosphere when transporting hazardous materials via air travel.
By following the regulations and requirements outlined in this rule, shippers can ensure that their lithium batteries are safely transported by air while also helping protect passengers from any potential fire hazards posed by these items.
If you need assistance understanding or implementing this Final Rule's rules, Critical Risk Solutions’ team of experts is here to help. Our experienced professionals will work with you to develop comprehensive solutions for safely transporting and storing Li-ion batteries so that your business operations remain compliant with all applicable laws and regulations. Contact us today for more information!
