DATA SHEET

Battery Management

Ref. 40 CFR §273.13 – 15

Overview

• The Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act of 1996 phases out the use of batteries that contain mercury, prohibits the sale of alkaline-manganese and zinc-carbon batteries that contain mercury and facilitates the recycling of Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries.

• Ni-Cd and certain Small Sealed Lead-Acid (SSLA) rechargeable batteries are considered to be "Universal Wastes" and do not count towards the facility’s hazardous waste generator status.

• Lead acid batteries generated from vehicular or boat maintenance shall be exchanged for replacement batteries as core charge.

• Small Quantity Generators (i.e., generate > 220 lbs. of hazardous waste/month) must recycle the batteries within 1 year after the initial battery is generated. Please develop a method to clearly demonstrate the length of accumulation time (e.g., date container upon generation of first spent battery).

• Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generators (i.e., generate < 220 lbs. of hazardous waste/month) are exempt from the above 1 year accumulation requirement.

Requirements

• Segregate batteries for recycling by type (i.e., Ni-Cd, SSLA) in suitable containers.

• Label containers as "Universal Waste Batteries" or "Waste Batteries" or "Used Batteries" and as to the specific type (e.g., Ni-Cd).

• Any waste battery (i.e., Ni-Cd, SSLA, lead acid) which shows signs of leakage or damage that could lead to leakage shall be placed into a structurally sound container compatible with the contents of the battery and maintained closed.

• Damaged batteries which cannot be recycled shall be managed as hazardous waste appropriately.

• Zinc-carbon and alkaline-manganese batteries may be disposed of as regular trash to the Sanitary Landfill.

Record Keeping

• Maintain receipts/shipping papers to document battery management activities and to compile waste minimization reports.