A pathology distribution system 10 is provided for automated sample container 14, 15 distribution. In its best mode of implementation, if a sensor 116 detects one or more parameters such as battery temperature 204 or pressure 206, exceeding a predetermined threshold value 334, the terminals 144 of the battery or cell are intentionally short-circuited external to the battery through a low or near zero resistance load 150 which rapidly drains energy from the battery 104. A discharge electrode is placed over the thick protective covering or bare pipe is created near the thick protective covering. A process is selected for use in fabricating the integrated circuit based on the relative predicted variations.