Batteries
Most batteries designate as dangerous waste, but if properly managed, businesses can recycle batteries under the following:
- Universal waste standards: All batteries.
- Lead-acid battery exclusion: Lead-acid batteries only.
Batteries not managed under one of the above must be designated and managed according to the Dangerous Waste Regulations.
Proper storage, recycling, and disposal of batteries is highly important. Ensure you take batteries to a recycling facility equipped for battery recycling. Never put them in the trash. Batteries thrown in the trash or stored unsafely can:
- Start a fire (such as lithium-ion batteries).
- Leak chemicals (mercury, lead, cadmium, lithium, or sulfuric acid).
Not a business?
If you are a household or individual, do not put batteries in curbside recycling bins or trash. Find a household hazardous waste site, Call2Recycle, or 1-800-Recycle.
Dangerous waste batteries
All dangerous waste batteries can be managed as universal waste (there are no specified size or battery chemistry limitations):
- Alkaline and alkaline-manganese dioxide.
- Lead-acid.
- Lithium-ion (such as electric vehicle (EV) batteries).
- Lithium-metal.
- Mercury (mercuric oxide, mercury cell, button cell, Ruben-Mallory).
- Nickel-cadmium.
- Silver oxide (often small, button type batteries).
- Zinc (zinc-carbon, -ion, -air, nickel zinc).
- All other types of batteries that are otherwise dangerous waste.
Manage batteries as universal waste
To manage dangerous waste batteries following the universal waste standards:
- Store batteries in a container compatible with battery waste. Keep closed if the batteries show evidence of leaks, spills, or damage that could cause the battery to leak.
- Label containers as: "Universal Waste—Battery(ies)" or "Waste Battery(ies)" or "Used Battery(ies)."
- Track accumulation time by marking containers or through shipment records. Universal waste has a one-year time limit for on-site accumulation.
- Determine your handler category. Large quantity universal waste handlers are subject to additional rules.
- Recycle. Universal waste handlers are prohibited from disposing of universal waste.
Manage batteries under the lead-acid battery exclusion
If you reclaim or regenerate spent lead-acid batteries, you can manage them under the lead-acid battery waste exclusion (WAC 173-303-520).
The exclusion requires that you:
- Recycle your lead-acid batteries.
- Store them properly on-site.
- Meet all other requirements noted in the exclusion.
Battery storage tips
Follow these best management practices to improve workplace safety. These are not requirements, but recommended:
- Segregate batteries by type. Some recyclers will not accept containers of mixed waste batteries.
- Don’t mix used batteries with new batteries. This may result in more waste generation.
- Don’t attempt to recharge a battery unless it’s marked as rechargeable. This could cause damage or rupturing.
Lithium-based battery storage
Frequently asked questions
Related links
Contact information
Need help?
Contact a dangerous waste inspector in your region.