What are lithium batteries?
They’re the little bundles of power that keep our world connected. Rechargeable lithium ion batteries keep our laptops and mobile phones running. Non rechargeable metal lithium batteries power our watches and remote car keys.
Why are they dangerous goods?
In a word? Fire.
Increasingly powerful, lithium batteries are designed to keep devices running for hours or days at a time. To achieve this, they contain high levels of electric energy. If packed incorrectly or damaged in transit, lithium batteries can short-circuit, causing them to overheat and catch fire.
Poor quality and counterfeit batteries are most at risk because they haven’t been through the
rigorous testing required.
Lithium ion batteries or cells:
Rechargeable (secondary) lithium ion or lithium polymer cells or batteries. Very commonly found in portable consumer electronics such as:
- Laptops
- Mobile Phones
- Mp3 Players
- Portable DVD Players
- Camcorders
- Cordless Power Tools
- GPS/Navigation systems
- Power Bank etc.
Lithium Metal batteries or cells:
Non-rechargeable (primary) lithium metal or lithium alloy cells or batteries Longer life than standard alkaline batteries / cells, and commonly used in:
- Cameras
- smoke detectors
- Watches
- Calculators
- Thermometers
- Remote car locks
- Toys
- Back-up batteries in computers and communication equipment etc.
How are you shipping them?
A wide variety of electronic goods powered by Lithium Batteries are affected by the regulations, regardless of whether they are rechargeable (Lithium Ion) or non-rechargeable (Lithium Metal). The regulations apply when:
- Lithium Batteries are packed and shipped as individual items (loose/bulk).
Example: Power bank ,mobile phone batteries.
