This paper reviews the literature on the human and environmental risks associated with the production, use, and disposal of increasingly common lithium-ion batteries.
Electrical Safety First welcomed the government's proposals. Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular type of rechargeable battery and are used in a wide range of electrical devices worldwide. The Lithium-ion Battery Safety Bill would provide for regulations concerning the safe storage, use and disposal of such batteries in the UK.
Standards relevant to lithium-ion batteries are also developed and published by organisations with longstanding activities related to electrical and fire safety, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, USA.
What are the OSHA standards for lithium-ion batteries?
While there is not a specific OSHA standard for lithium-ion batteries, many of the OSHA general industry standards may apply, as well as the General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970). These include, but are not limited to the following standards:
How can lithium-ion batteries prevent workplace hazards?
Whether manufacturing or using lithium-ion batteries, anticipating and designing out workplace hazards early in a process adoption or a process change is one of the best ways to prevent injuries and illnesses.
Requirements for associated transformers, power suppliers and chargers, or battery management systems may be provided within these or other related standards. Lithium-ion batteries are regulated as dangerous goods for the purposes of transport by road and rail.
Are lithium-ion batteries safe to use in Australia?
The Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADGC), issued by the National Transport Commission, requires that all non-prototype lithium-ion batteries are tested in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (ST/SG/AC.10/11) Part II Section 38.3 Lithium metal and Lithium-ion batteries (commonly referred to as UN 38.3).