How should lithium batteries be protected against short circuits during transport?

• A. Only one battery per outer package is required
• B. Terminals insulated or taped and batteries packed so they cannot contact each other or metal objects
• C. Exposed terminals are allowed if surrounded by non-conductive foam
• D. Batteries must be stored upright in their original cartons

Answer: (B)

Protecting lithium batteries from short circuits during transport hinges on isolating the terminals so they cannot touch each other or any conductive metal. The best approach is to insulate or tape the terminals and pack the batteries in a way that prevents any contact between terminals and with other metal objects. This creates a physical barrier that stops a conductive bridge from forming if the package shifts or handles during transit, which is when short circuits are most likely.

Other options don’t guarantee this isolation. Merely placing one battery per outer package doesn’t automatically prevent contact with other conductive parts or packaging materials. Having exposed terminals surrounded by non-conductive foam still isn’t a reliable barrier in all handling scenarios, and storing batteries upright in their original cartons doesn’t specifically address the need to keep terminals from contacting each other or metal objects.