Lithium Batteries: Safe Handling, Storage, and Disposal - HSI

Lithium batteries are used for many things, and they are very safe. But proper use, handling and storage are important for keeping workers safe on the job.

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Common Uses of Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are used in many devices present in the workplace. They include pretty much all computers, cell phones, cordless tools, watches, cameras, flashlights, some medical devices, and vehicles ranging from golf carts, electric cars, airplanes and many others.

Batteries of all types are useful because they allow us to store energy for use whenever it is needed. However, storing energy is inherently dangerous, and batteries can overheat through a process called &#;thermal runaway.&#; This means that the temperature and pressure inside one or more battery cells increases faster than the heat can be dissipated. This can happen for many reasons, such as external heat sources, internal shorts, or other malfunctions. Fires involving lithium batteries can be difficult to extinguish. They can also produce irritating and toxic fumes.

Types of Lithium Batteries and Their Hazards

Lithium metal batteries are almost always single-use, non-rechargeable batteries. Lithium ion batteries are usually rechargeable. They use lithium ions found in lithium compounds to create a chemical reaction. Lithium ion batteries are more stable than lithium metal batteries, but they can still generate heat, catch fire or even explode.

Hazards of Lithium and Lithium Compounds

Lithium is a soft, silver-white alkali metal that reacts with water, including the moisture in ambient air. Lithium is flammable, and can spontaneously ignite. It must be encased in a compatible substance such as petroleum jelly so it cannot contact moisture or anything else. It is corrosive to skin and other metals, and toxic if consumed in large enough quantities, and releases toxic vapors if burned. Most incidents happen when the battery&#;s shell is damaged and the lithium is exposed to air/moisture. Lithium compounds contain lithium ions which are individual lithium atoms. These are different from pure lithium metal. They tend to be much more stable, though they can still be corrosive, irritating or toxic.

Recommended Safe Handling and Storage Methods for Lithium Batteries

When working with lithium batteries in an occupational setting, people may be managing large numbers of batteries. It&#;s important to wear all required protective equipment, including eye protection. Preventing shorts by protecting battery terminals from contacting each other is a fundamental safe handling and storage practice. Battery terminals should remain covered, if possible. Care should always be taken when handling batteries. Using excessive force to remove batteries from a device can cause damage, so be careful. Batteries should only be charged according to manufacturer&#;s instructions. Any swollen, dented or otherwise damaged batteries should be disposed of.

Batteries should be stored in a well-ventilated, dry area kept between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be stored away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and water. Batteries should be stacked so that they&#;re stable and won&#;t be bumped, knocked over or otherwise damaged. Never stack heavy objects on top of batteries or devices containing batteries. Lithium metal batteries should be isolated from other types of batteries and all batteries should be isolated from flammable or explosive materials.

Lithium Battery Disposal

Most types of lithium batteries are considered either regular solid waste, or universal waste, depending on the exact battery. Universal wastes are regulated by simplified rules that make disposal easier than if they were considered hazardous wastes. However, there are some types of lithium batteries that are classified as hazardous wastes.

Some types of lithium batteries can be recycled; some types cannot be recycled. It may be necessary to consult a qualified person or other resource to find out what the proper disposal method is for the battery you have. In some cases, you may be able to just throw the battery in the regular trash. In other cases, you may need to take it to a recycling or other type of facility for proper disposal.

Lithium Battery Spill Cleanup

If a lithium battery is damaged and the contents spill out, precautions must be taken to prevent anyone from contacting the spilled material. Only people with proper training should attempt to clean the spill. If the spill involves a lithium metal battery, the area should be evacuated until a qualified person can be called in to respond to the spill. If battery contents get on the skin, the area should be flushed with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Call for medical attention if necessary. Gases or vapors from batteries must not be inhaled. If you think someone has inhaled gases or vapors from a lithium battery, get them outside or into another area away from the battery, and get medical help.

Conclusion

Lithium batteries are, by and large, a safe and reliable source of portable energy. The number of incidents involving lithium batteries is relatively small, and the general likelihood of being injured by lithium batteries is also low. However, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as the saying goes. Knowing a little about the types of lithium batteries, their potential hazards, and safe handling and storage of lithium batteries will go a long way toward ensuring your safety and the safety of your coworkers, employees, or even your family. If you are not sure about how to dispose of a battery, whether a battery is safe, or have any questions about lithium batteries, there are many online resources, including the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

If you believe a lithium battery is damaged, is overheating, is swollen or seems like it&#;s dangerous in some way, call 911.

How Can HSI Help?

HSI has created a course over lithium battery safety that covers the following topics:

• Recognize types of lithium batteries and their hazards
• Identify proper handling, storage, disposal and emergency response procedures for lithium batteries

How to Prepare Your Batteries for Recycling

 

Most of the batteries that we use everyday do not require any special preparation before recycling, however we do recommend that precautionary measures be taken when recycling certain types of batteries to reduce any risk of short-circuit.

Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries come in all the common sizes like AA, AAA, C, D and 9 volt and you'll find them in many different household devices. They're also used in cellphones, laptops and tools. Carefully inspect rechargeable batteries for damage.  Please ensure any exposed terminals or wires are taped or bagged during storage and prior to recycling.

Primary Lithium "Button" Cell Batteries (non-rechargeable)

Special consideration must be taken to ensure all primary lithium "button" cell batteries have their positive terminals taped prior to recycling. We recommend taping both the positive and negative terminals by simply placing a single piece of tape around the top and bottom of the button cell covering both terminal ends.

Button cell batteries are used in many applications such as musical greeting cards, watches and hearing aids.

Other Primary Lithium Cell Batteries (non-rechargeable)

Aside from the various button cell sizes, there are the more common AAA, AA, C, D and 9 Volt varieties. All of these batteries must have their positive terminals taped before recycling.

Sealed Lead Acid Batteries (SLA)

Sealed Lead Acid batteries are commonly used to power emergency lighting systems, UPS power units, remote control cars and vehicles. The sizes of these batteries vary depending on the application and each must have their positive terminals taped before recycling.

6 Volt Batteries

6 Volt batteries are the type used in larger flashlights and lanterns. Although not subject to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, we recommend that the protective caps or masking tape be placed over its terminals prior to being recycled as well.

All 9 Volt (Including Alkaline)

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9 Volt batteries are the type usually found in smoke detectors and alarm clocks. Simply place a piece of masking tape over the terminal ends to secure both the positive and negative terminals.

Broken or Damaged Batteries

Carefully place broken and or leaking batteries into a separate baggie or UN approved container with protective gloves and eyewear. Mark the container if it contains broken batteries.  Do not bring broken or damaged batteries to E360S collection sites, please contact us to make recycling arrangements. 

Securing the Positive Terminals on a Battery

The positive terminal on a battery is marked with a + symbol or may be identified as the red terminal on the Sealed Lead Acid variety.

To properly secure a battery, simply place a piece of masking tape over the positive terminal end so that it may not come into contact with metal or other batteries.

On 6 Volt batteries, place a piece of masking tape around the terminal springs to prevent smaller button cell types from being wedged in-between the terminal.

Reuse the Packaging

Consider reusing the package from the replacement battery to secure the used battery. Simply place the used battery inside the package and if needed, seal the package with a piece of tape.

 

 

Things to Avoid

Stacking Button Cell Batteries Prior to Taping

If multiple button cell batteries need to be prepared for recycling, simply use a longer piece of packing tape and place each button cell side by side with the positive terminal against the tape. To ensure that the batteries stay together, place another length of packing tape over the negative terminal ends.

Taping Different Chemistries Together

Every battery that is recycled at Environmental 360 Solutions Ltd. is sorted by type and chemistry. Place enough tape to safely cover the positive terminal. Avoid wrapping the entire battery in tape or taping different chemistries together.

Most of us have a place (or several) where we store our used batteries before we make the trip to our local retail recycling location. Below, we've listed some useful suggestions and considerations about storing your used batteries.

Out of Reach

All batteries should be kept safely out of reach of small children. Lithium button cell batteries found in musical birthday cards can be an attractive item for an inquisitive child. This type of battery is known to cause severe burns of the esophagus when swallowed which has in some cases resulted in death.

If you suspect your child has swallowed a battery of any type, you should contact your local emergency services immediately.

Store in a Cool, Dry Area

Store used batteries in a cool and dry area. Batteries should not be stored in extreme heat, near flammable materials or in locations where there is moisture or humidity.

Use a Plastic or Cardboard Container

As an added safety precaution, use a non-conductive storage container such as a plastic pail or cardboard box rather than using a metal coffee can for storage. Do not store batteries with flammable materials or conductive materials like metal, paperclips and staples, etc.

Ensure coin, 9 volt, sealed lead acid and lithium batteries are taped or individually bagged prior to storing.

Secure Positive Terminals

Remember to tape the positive terminal ends on all of the battery types listed above to reduce any risk of short-circuit.

Do you live in Ontario, Canada? 

If you're a resident of Ontario, you can recycle non-embedded primary and rechargeable batteries weighing less than 5 kilograms for free at many stores and municipal facilities across the Province. Simply type your postal code or city name into our search tool. If you live outside of Ontario, check with your local municipality to find your closest recycling point. 

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