IATA 60th Edition

Lithium Battery Changes You Need to Know

If you haven’t heard yet, then it’s a good thing you get all your updates, training, and regulation change information from Transportation Compliance Associates. With the 60^th edition of IATA (International Air Transportation Association), it brings about many changes, but none more important than the mandatory label changes to lithium ion and lithium metal batteries (specifically the lithium battery mark and class 9 lithium battery label). On January 1, 2019 shippers (DOT, IATA, and IMDG) no longer have the option between the “CAUTION” lithium battery label and the lithium battery mark. The new standard requires shippers to use the new mark which must display the specific UN number(s) associated with the battery shipment (i.e. UN3480, UN3481, UN3090, and UN3091). It must also contain a telephone number and no additional statements. The telephone number should be of a person that is knowledgeable about the shipment but is not required to be monitored 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week. For an example see below:

The 60^th edition also brings about mandatory changes for fully regulated battery shipments. Like the label/marking changes, shippers will be required to use the new lithium battery class 9 label. The new label requirements are as follows:

• It has to be 100mm wide by 100mm high
• The symbols and class numbers must be BLACK
• The background must be WHITE

For a full review of the significant changes and amendments to the 60^th Edition (2019) click HERE. If you’re a shipper having trouble keeping up with the constant changes and amendments to lithium batteries, you’re in luck! Here at Transportation Compliance Associates we take out all the guessing for you. Our comprehensive Lithium Battery course covers: general requirements, classification, packaging/packing instructions, exceptions, special provision, and state variation. Maybe you need or want more compliance and training options. We have you covered there as well. We offer multiple classes both in person or online so you can work at your own pace. If it’s at your fingertips compliance you’re after, our one stop shop web portal (Hazmax) is your ticket to solve everyday compliance issues. To stay up to date with all your hazardous materials transportation concerns, make sure to follow us on Facebook,  Twitter, and check us out a learnhazmat.com. You can also call us at (724) 899-4100 for a free consultation on how we can help you achieve all your safety, training, and compliance goals!