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Tightening Restrictions for Shipments that Include Lithium Batteries Increases Need for Specialized Shipper Training

LAFAYETTE, N.J., July 16 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Lion Technology, the nation’s leader in regulatory compliance training, is presenting a unique two-hour training session to address the new domestic and international shipping regulations for lithium batteries. A live Web seminar hosted through www.Lion.com will be held on July 22nd, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET.

The fee for the two-hour Web seminar is $229 per person. Registration includes function-specific training, downloadable regulations, and training certification. Students can register by phone, (888) 546-6511, or via the Internet at www.Lion.com.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has proposed a rulemaking that is aimed at tightening its lithium battery restrictions to eliminate regulatory exceptions for smaller shipments of lithium batteries. The DOT intends to increase packaging requirements and transport documentation, in addition to limiting the transportation of defective or damaged batteries. Manufacturers would be required to retain the results of their United Nations battery design-type test for each battery type. In addition, the proposed rulemaking would require that the pilot of an aircraft be informed if a battery shipment is being placed onboard the plane.

The seminar will cover the rules for ground, air, and vessel shipping under the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), International Air Transport Association (IATA), and International Maritime Organization (IMO). It is designed for employees and supervisors who perform pre-transportation functions, such as battery classification, packaging, marking, labeling, or completion of shipping papers. It also applies to those who ship electronics or other products that are packaged with batteries or contain batteries.

Lithium batteries are a versatile power source that has been adopted quickly by many different companies. As the number of lithium battery shipments has increased, so have the number of lithium battery incidents. Lithium batteries pose significant risk if not packaged correctly. When a lithium battery malfunctions due to mishandling, improper packaging, or inherent defects, the batteries generate extreme heat and cannot be easily extinguished. This poses great risk for those transporting the batteries, especially during air shipments.

The DOT mandates that all hazmat employees who “directly affect the safety of hazardous materials transportation” be trained and tested on the hazmat regulations applicable to their specific job functions and responsibilities. With civil penalties up to $55,000 per day per violation and criminal penalties up to $110,000 per day per violation, it is critical that lithium battery shippers receive updated training on the latest hazmat regulations.

About Lion Technology:

Since 1977, more than 100,000 professionals have relied on Lion Technology to meet their regulatory compliance training needs. Lion offers comprehensive training and resources in the area of environmental, hazardous materials/dangerous goods transportation, and workplace health and safety compliance. Training is offered through nationwide public workshops, live Web seminars, online courses, and on-site programs. Regulatory support services and consulting are provided to assist industry comply with Federal and State laws and regulations.

News Source: Lion Technology Inc.

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