The reality is: accidents happen. Lithium-Ion batteries can get damaged through no one’s fault, whether they were dropped while being removed, got bumped in a warehouse or were already defective when received from the manufacturer. Whether we assign blame or not, the important thing is to know how to identify damaged batteries and how the proper safety procedures for damaged Lithium-Ion battery disposal. To avoid creating extra work for yourself, there are some easy steps you can follow to identify and dispose of damaged or defective batteries.
Table Of Contents
How To Dispose Of Damaged Lithium Ion Batteries Properly How To Identify Damaged Lithium Ion Batteries How To Store Damaged Batteries How To Pack & Ship Your Damaged Lithium Ion Batteries Make It Easy & Hire An Expert The Dangers Of Damaged Batteries Frequently Asked Questions About Damaged, Defective and Recalled Lithium Ion Batteries What is a damaged, defective or recalled lithium ion battery? What do I do with a damaged battery or device? Who do we contact if we suspect we have a damaged, defective or recalled battery? Why do damaged, defective and recalled batteries require special shipping? Where can I find out if a battery has been recalled?
How To Dispose Of Damaged Lithium-Ion Batteries Properly
Depending on the battery type you want to dispose of, there are specific guidelines to follow to recycle them properly. Not to worry! When it comes to lithium-ion batteries, there are some telltale signs you can look out for to avoid misidentification.
How To Identify Damaged Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-Ion batteries are a very common type of rechargeable battery. They are used in electronic devices, laptops, cameras, cell phones, and even power tools. One key indicator that the battery is damaged is noticeable bloating or swelling. Another easy way to identify damage is to see if there are cracks, corrosion or leaking from the battery. You can also check if the battery has burn marks. If you are still unsure what type of battery you’re dealing with, Battery Recyclers of America will happily assist you with the identification.
How To Store Damaged Batteries
Once, you’ve identified that the battery is damaged, it’s vital to fight your instincts to throw it away. Throwing lithium batteries in the trash can leak toxic chemicals and even become a fire hazard. What you can do is check if there are any internal hazardous waste guidelines. While awaiting proper disposal, make sure to place the damaged battery in non-flammable material. Avoid having direct skin contact when dealing with a damaged battery, so you might want to wear protective gear such as gloves.
How To Pack & Ship Your Damaged Lithium Ion Batteries
Damaged or defective Lithium-Ion batteries can result in safety problems during transportation.
Numerous incidents of improper packaging and shipment in the past have led to special regulations put in place by the U.S Department of Transportation (DOT). Businesses must abide by DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations which include special handling of the damaged items and clear labelling and markings to be present on the packaging. One of the main things to know is that damaged, defective, or recalled lithium-Ion batteries cannot be shipped by air. Being aware of these guidelines will make it easy for your business to prevent incidents and avoid hefty fines.
Make Disposing of Potentially Dangerous Damaged Batteries Easy & Hire An Expert
The level of damage and the type of battery also plays a role in the disposal process. Batteries that are leaking, burned or melted all need to be handled differently. To make sure you are following the appropriate packaging and shipment guidelines, staying safe, and just making your life easy, you can consult a recycling professional. Call a battery expert at Battery Recyclers of America to keep your mind at peace and avoid liability.
The Dangers Of Damaged Lithium-Ion (Li) Batteries
It is important for you and your employees to look out for damaged batteries as they can quickly become a safety hazard. If moisture or oxygen gets into the defective battery it can cause a dangerous reaction. Improper storage and transportation can lead to fires or even escalate to an explosion. Lithium-ion batteries that are damaged can also release toxins into the air so they must be isolated immediately for everyone’s safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Damaged, Defective and Recalled Lithium-Ion Batteries
Now that more and more businesses are recycling there are questions around what can and cannot go in the trash. To clear up any confusion around damaged lithium-ion batteries, here are some answers to frequently asked questions.
What is a damaged, defective, or recalled lithium-ion battery?
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries made of nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese, electrolyte, and certain forms of plastic casing. Damaged lithium-ion batteries show signs of bloating, swelling, leaking, burn marks, and may have cracks.
What do I do with a damaged battery or device?
Place the device or battery (if the battery is removable) in non-flammable material away from people. Check if there are any internal hazardous waste guidelines. Contact a recycling professional for assistance with identification and disposal.
Who do we contact if we suspect we have a damaged, defective, or recalled battery?
You can contact Battery Recyclers of America, and one of our associates will assist you in identifying your damaged battery and its disposal. Email our team, or give us a call at (866-469-9375). You can also check the website of the manufacturer to see if the battery or device has been recalled. If it has, follow the instructions on the website.
Why do damaged, defective and recalled batteries require special shipping?
Damaged, defective, and recalled batteries can become safety hazards if not handled properly. They can lead to fires, explosions, toxic contamination, and health dangers. If the damaged batteries are not shipped according to regulations, it can also result in heavy fines.
Where can I find out if a battery has been recalled?
You can check if the battery has been recalled on the manufacturer’s website. Some recalled products are also listed on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.
