Why paying attention to hazardous goods is more important than ever.
A recent explosion which killed 23 people at a lithium battery factory in South Korea has highlighted the importance of strict regulations when moving hazardous goods, in particular, lithium batteries.
Lithium batteries can be found in a variety of products – from electronic products we use in our daily lives including smartphones and laptops, to medical equipment and security systems.
As highlighted by the recent explosion in South Korea, lithium batteries are at risk of exploding if they malfunction, get contaminated or damaged, or if they overheat in environments with extreme temperatures.
While a fire can be extinguished, it remains at risk of reigniting without warning due to the chemical reaction, meaning it takes much longer and is a lot more difficult to contain a fire involving lithium. Due to this, they are highly regulated when it comes to moving them by air.
With ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea, many businesses are turning to air freight to move their goods, of which may include lithium batteries.
We caught up with one of our Associate Directors, Sarah, who leads our Aviate department all about the significance of moving these dangerous goods with care, and how our team of experts are here to support our customers through any queries.
What information do we need from our customers when we’re moving dangerous goods?
S – To ensure that we’re able to find the perfect solution for our customers in an efficient timeframe, it’s vital that we have all necessary information from the beginning.
In particular for products containing lithium batteries, we require the:
- UN number
- Proper shipping name
- Net quantity and amount of batteries or cells
- Type of batteries
- Packing instruction and sub-section
It might seem like a hassle to provide so much information, but a lithium battery explosion on an aircraft would be catastrophic! Although, when correctly declared, packed, and transported – the risk of incidents involving lithium batteries via air is very rare.
Once myself and the rest of the Aviate Team have all the information we require, we’re able to do what we do best and tailor-make solutions for our customers, whilst always ensuring the safe movement of goods.
What processes and protocols do the Aviate team follow to ensure the safe movement of hazardous goods?
S – Our Aviate team is made up of air freight experts – all of which are fully IATA trained. As Baxter Freight is an IATA member, it means we’re able to connect our customers safely, securely and efficiently, to all parts of the aviation network through global standards. We ensure that all the work we do is compliant and adheres to strict guidelines, including IATA’s Lithium Battery Guidance.
To read IATA’s 2024 Lithium Battery Guidance Document in full, click here.
How are lithium batteries classified?
S – All lithium batteries are classified in Class 9 – Miscellaneous dangerous goods as either:
- UN 3090, Lithium metal batteries
- UN 3480, Lithium-ion batteries
(These UN numbers can travel as Cargo Aircraft Only, and not on passenger aircraft).
When inside a piece of equipment or packed separately with a piece of equipment to power it, they’d be classified as:
- UN 3091, Lithium metal batteries contained in equipment
- UN 3091, Lithium metal batteries packed with equipment
- UN 3481, Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment
- UN 3481, Lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment
What goods contain lithium batteries?
S – Lithium batteries are in more products than people realise, and they all come with their precautions. Some of the most popular items that include lithium batteries are:
- Electronics like smartphones, tablets, cameras, watches, calculators, car key fobs
- Defibrillators
- Rechargeable power tools such as cordless drills, saws, and sanders
- Cordless garden tools such as hedge-trimmers and leaf-blowers
- Household items such as lighting and remote controls
- Medical devices and security systems
- Computer mice
- Bluetooth headsets and headphones
We believe that sharing knowledge is the key to understanding all the complexities that come with logistics.
For more information about the hazards lithium batteries bring, along with how to load aircraft correctly with products including lithium batteries on board click here.
Our team of experts are always here to help with any queries you may have. Click the button below to get in touch, and see how we can make your supply chain your competitive advantage.
