Battery Testing & Criteria

All lithium cells or batteries must meet the criteria of the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria. This manual contains criteria, test methods, and procedures to be used for the classification of dangerous goods according to the provisions of Parts 2 and 3 of the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Model Regulations. The manual also contains lists of chemicals that present physical hazards according to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). Lithium cells and batteries are subject to these tests regardless of whether the cells used to construct the battery are of a tested type.

Per the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, all cell types must undergo tests T.1 to T.6, as well as T.8. All non-rechargeable battery types, including those composed of previously tested cells, must undergo tests T.1 to T.5. All rechargeable battery types, including those composed of previously tested cells, must undergo tests T.1 to T.5, as well as T.7. In addition, rechargeable single cell batteries with overcharge protection must undergo test T.7. A component cell that is not transported separately from the battery it is part of requires only tests T.6 and T.8. A component cell that is transported separately from the battery is tested as a cell.

If cells or batteries do not meet one or more of the test requirements, steps must be taken to correct any deficiencies that caused the failure before another test is administered.

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