How to Handle Lithium Batteries and Equipment Containing Batteries

Guide for Transporting Lithium Batteries and Equipment Containing Batteries for Disposal or Recycling

Information technology and electronic equipment such as cell phones, tablets and laptops with lithium batteries have become integral to our daily lives. Lithium batteries now power everything from smartphones and laptops to electric cars and power tools. While these batteries offer many benefits, such as longer life and faster charging time compared to conventional batteries, they also pose risks if not handled and transported safely.

This guide aims to provide essential information for shippers, transporters, and recyclers that are shipping electronic devices containing lithium batteries and loose batteries for disposal or recycling. This guide applies to everyone responsible for handling, packaging, and shipment of electronic devices containing lithium batteries, as well as loose lithium batteries. As technology advances, so does the need for proper recycling of these devices to ensure compliance with regulations and to promote environmental sustainability which is essential for everyone on our planet.

Lithium-ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods due to their chemical and physical properties. These batteries can pose serous risks such as:

Fire Hazards: Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire if they are damaged, short-circuited, or overheated.

 

Chemical Burns: If the battery casing is compromised, the electrolyte inside can leak and cause chemical burns or environmental damage.

Explosion Risks: In certain conditions, the batteries might explode, causing potential harm to people and property.

 

Given these risks, the transportation of lithium batteries is strictly regulated and subject to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, (TDG Act) and its regulations. This is to ensure the safety of individuals, property, and the environment.

Shipping and Transporting Electronic Devices and Loose Batteries for disposal and recycling within Canada.

When it comes to disposing of electronic devices with lithium batteries, whether you plan on

repurposing, reselling or simply transporting them, there are important steps to follow. If your importing or exporting Lithium ion batteries to and from the US, refer to

LITHIUM BATTERY GUIDE FOR US SHIPPERS.

In Canada, it is crucial to comply with regulations set out by Transport Canada to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Unless approved by Transport Canada for an Equivalency Certificate, all aspects of the TDG Act and its regulations must be strictly adhered to.

Here’s a step-by-step guide of what’s involved:

Step 1: Preparing for Shipment

Preparing Batteries for Short Circuit Protection

Preventing lithium batteries from short circuit is very important to keep them from

overheating and catching fire. Always keep lithium batteries isolated from metal objects

(e.g. jewellery, keys) or other conductive materials by enclosing each one separately and

insulating terminals with a non-conductive material (e.g. electrical tape). Package them

so they cannot shift or get damaged during transport.

Preparing Electronics Devices for Shipment

A lithium battery inside equipment is protected from short circuit because it is secured in the actual device and cannot move around during transport. Make sure no switches or power buttons can be accidentally turned-on during transport. Ensure the batteries are securely installed in the device and cannot come loose during transit. This helps to minimize the risk of damage or accidents during transportation. 

• Reference: TDG Regulations, Part 5
• Action: Ensure batteries are in a state suitable for transport. This includes ensuring they are charged to no more than 30% of their capacity, are not damaged, and are protected from short circuits by insulating terminals.

Step 2: Proper Packaging and Labelling

When shipping devices containing lithium batteries, it is vital to label and package them correctly. The package should be marked as containing lithium batteries and include relevant hazard symbols. This ensures the carrier or transporter is aware of the contents and can handle them accordingly. If you are shipping loose batteries, the same guidelines apply. Ensure that the batteries are properly packaged to prevent any short-circuiting or damage. Additionally, label the package as containing lithium batteries and follow specific regulations regarding the quantity and size of batteries that can be shipped.

Class 9 Battery Label

   Lithium batteries for recycling label & mention of Equivalency Certificate Number

 

For example:

 

Example: Safety marks permitted by SU 14362 applied to an overpack:

 

• Reference: TDG Regulations, Part 4 and Part 5
• Action: The packaging should be UN Rated and withstand the rigors of transport and prevent any movement of the batteries that could lead to short-circuiting or damage. Affix the appropriate labels on the packaging, including Class 9 battery label and the lithium batteries for recycling label.

Step 5: Shipping Document

It is the consignor’s (Shipper’s) responsibility to create their shipping document. See samples of shipping documents.

A shipping document is always required when transporting batteries by ground transportation. Unless exempt from the TDG Regulations through a special case, special provision or equivalency certificate, battery shipments must fully comply with the TDG Regulations.

Greentec is approved under Equivalency Certificate SU 14362 to only display the certificate number on the BOL as demonstrated below.

• Reference: TDG Regulations, Part 3
• Action: Complete a shipping document that includes the Equivalency Certificate Number SU 14362. When shipping batteries by marine or air transport, consult Parts 11 and 12 of the TDG Regulations.
  
  

Step 6: Placarding Trucks for Transport

On the truck, the primary class placard for every dangerous good transported in a large means of containment (Class 9, for example) must be displayed on each side and at each end of the large means of containment (the truck, for example). Note: The TDG Regulations allow an exemption to placard requirements if the gross mass of dangerous goods in a road or railway vehicle is 500 kg or less. However, placards may still be voluntarily displayed. For more details, consult Sections 4.16.1 and 4.1.1 of the TDG Regulations.

• Reference: TDG Regulations, Part 4, Section 4.15

• Action: If using a large means of containment more than 500kgs (e.g., a truck), ensure that it has the correct placards on each side and at each end indicating the Class 9 hazardous material.

Step 7: Reporting and Record Keeping

• Reference: TDG Regulations, Part 8
• Action: : Report any accidents or releases of dangerous goods as required by law.

Step 8: Training and Certification

An individual must have training to handle batteries. Part 6 of the TDG Regulations requires that a person who handles, offers for transport or transports dangerous goods, be adequately trained and hold a valid training certificate. However, a person who does not have proper training or a valid training certificate may perform these activities in the presence and under direct supervision of a person who is properly trained and holds a valid training certificate.

• Reference: TDG Regulations, Part 6
• Action: Ensure that all personnel involved in the handling and transport of lithium batteries are properly trained and certified as per the TDG Regulations.

By following these steps and adhering to the TDG Regulations, organizations can be confident that when shipping Lithium-Ion batteries that they have fulfilled their obligations are compliant with current regulations.

To speak to an expert or get a free quote visit www.Greentec.com

 

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