Meaning
International regulatory instruction appearing in the United Nations Model Regulations for the transport of dangerous goods that specifies the labeling requirements for lithium battery shipments. Special provision 384 mandates the use of the Class 9 lithium battery hazard label on packages containing these items. It ensures that emergency responders can quickly identify the chemical risks associated with a cargo consignment.
Label Design
Graphic elements on the placard include a series of black vertical stripes and a symbol representing a leaking battery. Compliance with special provision 384 requires the label to be distinct from the standard Class 9 miscellaneous dangerous goods sign. The design emphasizes the fire risk.
Shipping Scope
Lithium ion and lithium metal batteries transported as individual units or packed with equipment fall under this rule. Because special provision 384 applies to both air and sea freight, the code forms a global standard for the battery logistics chain. The regulation excludes small consumer devices under certain watt hour limits.
Compliance Consequence
Failure to apply the correct label can result in the seizure of goods or heavy fines from transport authorities. This special provision 384 requirement helps prevent the mixing of incompatible materials in a single shipping container. Proper marking ensures that the handling staff follows the specific safety protocols for lithium chemistries during loading and unloading operations.
International carriers use these markings to determine where a pallet can be safely stowed on a vessel or aircraft.
