US DOT Lithium Battery Harmonization (HM-224F) Final Rule

HM-224F Lithium Batteries

On August 6, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued the Final Rule on lithium batteries (HM-224F).  

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2014-08-06/pdf/2014-18146.pdf

There are many significant harmonizations in the final rule.  To quote the press release from the DOT, The final rule will:

• Enhance packaging and hazard communication requirements for lithium batteries transported by air; 
• Replace equivalent lithium content with Watt-hours for lithium ion cells and batteries; 
• Adopt separate shipping descriptions for lithium metal batteries and lithium ion batteries; 
• Revise provisions for the transport of small and medium lithium cells and batteries including cells and batteries packed with, or contained in, equipment; 
• Revise the requirements for the transport of lithium batteries for disposal or recycling; 
• Harmonize the provisions for the transport of low production and prototype lithium cells and batteries with the ICAO Technical Instructions and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code; 
• Adopt new provisions for the transport of damaged, defective, and recalled lithium batteries.