Topic: Lithium Batteries

NTSB Recommendation: Eliminate regulatory exemptions for the packing, marking, and labeling of cargo shipments of small secondary lithium batteries (no more than 8 grams equivalent lithium content) until the analysis of the failures and the implementation of risk-based requirements asked for in Safety Recommendation A-07-108 are completed.

PHMSA Action: PHMSA published a final rule (HM-224F; 79 FR 46012) on August 6, 2014 that revised hazard communication and packaging provisions for lithium batteries; and harmonized the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) with applicable standards of the United Nations (UN) Model Regulations, the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (ICAO Technical Instructions) and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.

Latest PHMSA Response: Letter sent to NTSB 8/27/2014

NTSB Status: CAAA

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