IEC 62485-1:2015 specifies the basic requirements for secondary batteries and battery installations. The requirements regarding safety, reliability, life expectancy, mechanical strength, cycle stability, internal resistance, and battery temperature, are determined by various applications, and this, in turn, determines the selection of the battery design and technology. In general, the requirements and definitions are specified for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries. For other battery systems with aqueous electrolyte, the requirements may be applied accordingly. The standard covers safety aspects taking into account hazards associated with:

- electricity (installation, charging, discharging, etc.);

- electrolyte;

- inflammable gas mixtures;

- storage and transportation.