Lithium Batteries

Backgrounder

Lithium batteries are dangerous goods, much like gasoline, propane, and sulphuric acid. In Canada, the shipping and importing of lithium batteries are subject to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, 1992 and its regulations.

There are two main kinds of lithium batteries:

A lithium-metal battery is usually non-rechargeable, contains metallic lithium, and features a higher energy density than other non-rechargeable batteries. Lithium metal batteries are often used in calculators, pacemakers, hearing aids, remote car locks and watches.

A lithium-ion battery is rechargeable, does not contain metallic lithium, and features high energy density. A lithium polymer battery is considered a type of lithium ion battery. Lithium ion batteries are used in consumer products such as cell phones, electric vehicles, laptop computers, power tools, and tablets.

While most lithium batteries are safe, some have overheated and caught fire. Once ignited, they can cause any nearby batteries to overheat and catch fire as well. These fires are difficult to put out and produce toxic fumes.

Under the new protective direction signed by the Minister of Transport, lithium-ion battery cargo shipments can no longer be transported on passenger aircraft (previously only lithium-metal batteries were banned). Shipments of lithium batteries can be made on cargo aircraft under certain circumstances, or through ground transportation.

The new protective direction does not impact lithium-ion batteries found in consumer products, including cell phones, laptops, cameras, and medical devices. The ban only applies to batteries shipped on their own and not contained in equipment.

Air operators that service remote communities, particularly in the North, will be able to apply to Transport Canada for a Temporary Certificate to transport lithium batteries where an urgent need can be demonstrated.

All designs and types of lithium batteries must meet the requirements of the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria to be shipped safely. Shippers and importers must meet the requirements set out in the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations for the handling, offering for transport, transporting and importing of lithium batteries in Canada. The requirements vary by mode of transport.

March 2016


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Hon. Marc Garneau Transport Canada Transport

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