Lithium-ion Battery Safety Lithium-ion batteries are one type of rechargeable battery technology (other examples include sodium ion and solid state) that supplies power to many devices we use daily. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the manufacturing and industrial use of these batteries due to their superior energy.
It is a guideline that outlines safe storage practices, including the charging and discharging of lithium-ion batteries, lithium metal batteries, and hybrid lithium batteries. If you would like to learn more about shipping of lithium batteries, we wrote this guide about just that.
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:
What are the requirements for lithium-bearing energy carrier storage?
PGS 37-2 provides detailed requirements for numerous aspects of lithium-bearing energy carrier storage. Here are some key areas the guideline covers: Storage Limits: The maximum permitted quantities of energy carriers that can be stored in different types of facilities are defined.
should be stored separately from rechargeable lithium ion batteries. Cells should be stored in their original containers or installed in equipment. Store the cells in a well-ventilated, dry area. The temperature should be as cool as possible to maximize shelf life. Observe the manufacturers minimum and maximum storage temperatures.
Given the reliance on batteries, the electrified transportation and stationary grid storage sectors are dependent on critical materials; today's lithium-ion batteries include several critical materials, including lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite.13 Strategic vulnerabilities in these sources are being recognized.
Should lithium-based batteries be a domestic supply chain?
Establishing a domestic supply chain for lithium-based batteries requires a national commitment to both solving breakthrough scientific challenges for new materials and developing a manufacturing base that meets the demands of the growing electric vehicle (EV) and electrical grid storage markets.