UN 38.3 requires several tests to ensure the relative safety of batteries and cells during transport that vary based on the battery and components, as well as what they assess:

Tests T1-T5, conducted on the same samples for all battery types in sequence:Test T1: Altitude Simulation – Simulates low pressure (primary and secondary cells and batteries)Test T2: Thermal Test – This test offers an integrity check during rapid and extreme temperature changes (primary and secondary cells and batteries)Test T3: Vibration – Simulates vibration during transportation (primary and secondary cells and batteries)Test T4: Shock – Simulates vibration during transportation (primary and secondary cells and batteries)Test T5: Short Circuit – Simulates an external short circuit (primary and secondary cells and batteries)Test T6: Impact – Simulates impact and crush to the case of the cell (primary and secondary cells)Test T7: Overcharge – Simulates overcharge on a rechargeable battery (secondary batteries)Test T8: Forced Discharge – Simulates forced discharge of cells (primary and secondary cells)

Test Items of this certification: T.10 Short-Circuit Test
T.11 Abnormal Charging Test
T.13 CrushTest
T.14 ImpactTest
T.15 Shock Test
T.16 Vibration Test
T.17 Heating Test
T.18 Temperature Cycling Test
T.19 Low Pressure (Altitude Simulation) Test
T.20 Project Test

UL1642 certification requirements cover rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for use as a power supply in the products. These lithium-ion batteries contain metallic lithium, a lithium alloy. They may consist of a single electrochemical cell or two or more cells connected in parallels or series, or both, that convert chemical energy into electrical energy by an irreversible or reversible chemical reaction. UL1642 certification requirements cover lithium-ion batteries intended for use in technician-replaceable or user-replaceable applications.
UL1642 certification requirements are made for avoiding the risk of fire or explosion when lithium-ion batteries are working in a product. The final acceptability of these lithium-ion batteries is dependent on their use in a complete product that complies with UL1642 certification applicable to such products.

TÜV SÜD's comprehensive testing and certification services ensures Summit Battery complies with all major industry standards. TÜV SÜD's global network of testing labs and industry experts use the latest industry methods to support all necessary OEM Design Verification Plan and Report (DVP&R) requirements for materials, durability, shock & vibration, electrical, and EMC performance testing. IEC 62133 defines the requirements and tests for secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes and the batteries made from them. The standard IEC 62133 distinguishes between nickel and lithium-ion cells and batteries. For lithium-ion cells and batteries IEC 62133 contains the following single tests:

7.3.1 External Short-Circuit

7.32 External Short -Circuit

7.3.3 Free Fall

7.3.4 Crush

7.3.6 Over-Charging of battery

7.3.7 Forced Discharge

7.3.8 Mechanical Test