This instruction applies to UN Nos. 3090, 3091, 3480, 3481, 3551 and 3552 production runs consisting of not more than 100 cells and batteries and to pre-production prototypes of cells and batteries when these prototypes are carried for testing.

The large packagings are authorized for a single battery and for a single item of equipment containing cells or batteries, provided that the general provisions of 4.1.1 and 4.1.3 are met.

(1) For a single battery:
The large packagings shall conform to the packing group II performance level.

Large packagings shall also meet the following requirements:

(a) A battery of different size, shape or mass may be packed in an outer packaging of a tested design type listed above provided the total gross mass of the package does not exceed the gross mass for which the design type has been tested;

(b) The battery shall be packed in an inner packaging and placed inside the outer packaging;

(c) The inner packaging shall be completely surrounded by sufficient non-combustible and electrically non-conductive thermal insulation material to protect against a dangerous evolution of heat;

(d) Appropriate measures shall be taken to minimize the effects of vibration and shocks and prevent movement of the battery within the package that may lead to damage and a dangerous condition during carriage. When cushioning material is used to meet this requirement it shall be non-combustible and electrically non-conductive; and

(e) The non-combustibility of the thermal insulation material and the cushioning material shall be assessed according to a standard recognized in the country where the large packaging is designed or manufactured.

(2) For a single item of equipment containing cells or batteries:
The large packagings shall conform to the packing group II performance level.

Large packagings shall also meet the following requirements:

(a) A single item of equipment of different size, shape or mass may be packed in an outer packaging of a tested design type listed above provided the total gross mass of the package does not exceed the gross mass for which the design type has been tested;

(b) The equipment shall be constructed or packed in such a manner as to prevent accidental operation during carriage;

(c) Appropriate measures shall be taken to minimize the effects of vibration and shocks and prevent movement of the equipment within the package that may lead to damage and a dangerous condition during carriage. When cushioning material is used to meet this requirement, it shall be non-combustible and electrically non-conductive; and

(d) The non-combustibility of the cushioning material shall be assessed according to a standard recognized in the country where the large packaging is designed or manufactured.


Additional requirement
Cells and batteries shall be protected against short circuit.