EN IEC 61960-4:2024/prA1:2025

Overview

EN IEC 61960-4:2024/prA1:2025 is an Amendment to the established international standard for secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes, specifically focusing on secondary lithium coin cells and batteries made from them for portable applications. Published by CLC, this Amendment enhances safety and usability requirements for coin secondary lithium cells, addressing increasing safety concerns especially related to accidental ingestion.

This Amendment introduces new mandatory markings and packaging requirements, aiming to reduce risks associated with coin cell batteries in consumer devices.

Key Topics

• Updated Marking Requirements

  • Special safety warnings required directly on cells and batteries, particularly for those that are easily swallowable.
  • Addition of explicit markings like “KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN” for coin cells with a diameter of 16 mm or greater.
  • Clarifies the type and location of markings to ensure higher visibility and compliance.

• Packaging Requirements

  • Coin secondary lithium cells and batteries must be packaged in a way that helps prevent accidental ingestion by children.
  • Packaging for swallowable cells must be larger than the ingestion gauge referenced in IEC 60086-4:2025, reducing choking hazards.
  • For larger coin cells (diameter ≥16 mm) meant for direct consumer sales, adherence to further packaging criteria for safety is mandated.

• Clear Safety Instructions

  • Immediate packaging must carry clear, standardized warnings about the risks of swallowing coin cells, with advice to seek urgent medical attention if ingestion occurs.

• Rationale for Changes

  • These amendments stem from the increasing use of coin secondary lithium cells in consumer electronics and associated safety incidents, notably among children.

Applications

EN IEC 61960-4:2024/prA1:2025 is highly relevant in the following areas:

• Consumer Electronics

  • Ensures safer integration of coin lithium secondary cells in portable devices like watches, remote controls, fitness trackers, and key fobs.

• Battery and Cell Manufacturing

  • Guides manufacturers on conforming to updated labeling and packaging requirements, ensuring market access in Europe and globally.

• Retail Packaging Design

  • Addresses packaging design for primary and secondary lithium coin cells, helping retailers and brands protect consumers and meet regulatory demands.

• Product Compliance and Certification

  • Assists testing laboratories and quality assurance teams in applying up-to-date safety protocols, especially concerning child safety.

• Healthcare and Safety Communication

  • Enhances public safety messaging regarding the risks of button batteries, supporting healthcare advisors and consumer protection bodies.

Related Standards

Professionals working with this Amendment should also consult:

• IEC 62133-2 – Safety requirements for portable sealed secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes
• IEC 60086-4:2025 – Safety requirements for lithium batteries, including definitions and specifications for ingestion hazard prevention
• EN IEC 61960-4:2024 – The core standard that this Amendment updates, detailing characteristics of coin secondary lithium cells

Practical Value

By complying with EN IEC 61960-4:2024/prA1:2025, organizations can:

• Enhance the safety of portable devices using coin secondary lithium batteries
• Prevent accidental injuries and fatalities related to coin battery ingestion
• Meet rising regulatory expectations and consumer safety demands across Europe and internationally
• Build consumer trust through clear hazard communication and robust product safety design

This Amendment ensures that battery manufacturers, device producers, and retailers are better equipped to address crucial safety risks associated with secondary lithium coin cells in everyday portable applications.