Hazmat Training: Lithium Batteries

Hazardous materials (hazmat) can be a risk to health, safety, and property when shipped. The Department of Transportation (DOT) decides what items are considered hazmat.

The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) are a set of rules created by The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).

Lithium batteries can provide significant electrical energy in a relatively small package. They present both chemical and electrical hazards. Batteries can be dangerous if not safely packaged and handled when transported. They can short circuit, overheat, cause a fire, or even explode.

Hazmat Training: Lithium Batteries is designed to help satisfy the function-specific training requirements regarding lithium batteries.

Please note: 49 CFR 172.704(d) of the HMR requires each hazmat employer to create and retain a record certifying the current training of each hazmat employee. It is the responsibility of the hazmat employer to complete additional company-specific training in order to formally certify each learner. Trainers may use the J. J. Keller-issued certificate for compliance with the recordkeeping requirements in Section 172.704(d)(3). The trainer and the trainer's company are considered the "person providing the training" in Section 172.704(d)(4). Because of this, trainers should maintain additional records documenting a description or copy of the additional company-specific training materials provided to each learner.

After completing this training program, employees will be able to:

• Determine proper shipping requirements for lithium batteries
• Identify appropriate packaging for transport
• Recognize which marking and labels are required
• Explain when shipping papers must be completed