UN 38.3

Term from Battery Technology industry explained for recruiters

UN 38.3 is a safety testing standard that all lithium batteries must pass before they can be shipped or transported. Think of it as a safety passport for batteries. When you see this on a resume, it means the person has experience with making sure batteries are safe for transport by air, sea, or land. This is important because batteries can be dangerous if not properly tested and certified. The "UN" stands for United Nations, who created these rules, and "38.3" is simply the section number of these rules that deals specifically with batteries.

Examples in Resumes

Managed UN 38.3 certification process for new lithium battery products

Led testing team through UN 38.3 compliance procedures for international battery shipments

Achieved UN 38.3 certification for company's complete battery product line

Typical job title: "Battery Test Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Battery Certification Specialist Battery Safety Engineer Product Compliance Engineer Battery Test Technician Battery Validation Engineer Regulatory Compliance Specialist Battery Quality Engineer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you set up a UN 38.3 testing program from scratch?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain the process of establishing a testing facility, working with certification labs, creating documentation systems, and training staff on proper procedures. They should mention cost considerations and timeline management.

Q: What's your experience with failed UN 38.3 tests and how did you handle them?

Expected Answer: Should discuss problem-solving approaches, how to analyze test failures, implement corrective actions, and manage relationships with testing labs and certification bodies while maintaining project timelines.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the main tests required for UN 38.3 certification?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic tests like altitude, temperature, vibration, and shock testing in simple terms, and explain why each is important for battery safety.

Q: How do you prepare documentation for UN 38.3 certification?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of required documentation, test reports, and how to organize information for submission to testing authorities.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Why is UN 38.3 certification important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a safety requirement for shipping batteries and helps ensure batteries won't cause problems during transport.

Q: What's your understanding of basic battery safety?

Expected Answer: Should show awareness of basic battery handling safety, importance of proper testing, and understanding of why certification is needed.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of battery testing procedures
  • Familiarity with safety documentation
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety practices
  • Basic quality control concepts

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Managing complete UN 38.3 testing cycles
  • Coordinating with testing laboratories
  • Preparing certification documentation
  • Understanding international shipping regulations

Senior (5+ years)

  • Setting up testing programs
  • Training and supervising test teams
  • Troubleshooting certification issues
  • Working with international regulatory bodies

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with battery testing
  • Lack of knowledge about basic safety procedures
  • Unable to explain documentation requirements
  • No experience with quality control processes
  • Unfamiliarity with shipping regulations