Safe transportation of lithium batteries: UN and ANTT rules your company must follow

Importance of Safe Transportation of Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are essential components for many electronic devices, from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, due to their chemical nature and potential risk of explosion or fire, the transportation of these batteries requires strict care. To ensure safety during transportation, it is essential to follow the rules established by the UN and ANTT.

UN Regulations for the Transportation of Lithium Batteries

The United Nations (UN) establishes clear international guidelines for the transportation of batteries containing lithium ions, which are classified as hazardous materials. These rules are described in the United Nations Model Recommendation for the Transport of Dangerous Goods, which include:

• Appropriate classification: Lithium batteries are categorized as dangerous goods, and their transport must respect the correct classification to ensure proper handling and packaging.
• Certified packaging: Packaging that meets impact resistance and leak containment requirements must be used, avoiding risks during transport.
• Quantity limit per package: There is a defined limit for the quantity of batteries transported per package, avoiding excessive concentration of hazardous material.
• Declaration and labeling: Loads must be clearly identified with specific labels and transport documents that inform of the hazardous content.

ANTT Standards for Road Transport in Brazil

In Brazil, the National Land Transport Agency (ANTT) regulates the road transport of lithium batteries through Resolution No. 5,231/2016 and other related standards. Among the main requirements are:

• Driver training: Drivers involved in the transportation of lithium batteries must receive specific training on safe handling and emergency procedures.
• Packaging and segregation: Batteries must be packaged in appropriate containers and segregated from other incompatible products to prevent chemical incidents.
• Mandatory documentation: All transportation must have documents proving the regularity and classification of the material, in accordance with the regulations on the transportation of dangerous goods.
• Inspections: Vehicles and loads are subject to inspections to ensure that safety regulations are being complied with.

Good Practices to Ensure Safety in Transportation

In addition to strictly complying with UN and ANTT standards, adopting good practices is fundamental to reducing risks:

• Pre-checking batteries: Identify damage or defects that could compromise safety before transportation.
• Temperature monitoring: Avoid overheating during transportation, as this can increase the risk of fire.
• Avoid short circuits: Ensure that the battery terminals are protected and insulated.
• Safe route planning: Choose routes that minimize exposure to accidents or adverse conditions.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the rules can lead to serious risks to the environment, the safety of people and significant material damage. In addition to putting the integrity of transportation at risk, legal penalties, fines and suspension of activities related to the transportation of lithium batteries can occur. Therefore, strict compliance with the rules is essential to avoid these negative impacts.

Conclusion

The safe transportation of lithium batteries depends on compliance with UN international rules and ANTT national regulations. Keeping up to date and following all the guidelines is essential to ensure the safety of the cargo, the professionals involved and the environment.