Information on Prevention and Management of Waste Batteries for Primary Batteries

(a) Role of endusers in waste prevention

Follow the device manufacturer’s instructions for correct battery insertion and usage. Avoid storing or using batteries in extreme temperatures or high humidity. Remove batteries from devices that will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage or unnecessary discharge. Primary batteries are not rechargeable; do not attempt to recharge them, as this may cause leakage or rupture. When the battery is depleted, encourage users to bring it to designated collection points to enable potential material recovery or recycling.

(b) Role of endusers in separate collection (Article 64)

Endusers are obliged to separate spent batteries from other household waste. Do not discard batteries in unsorted municipal waste or litter them. Separate collection facilitates proper treatment and resource recovery (e.g., zinc, manganese, steel, lithium), aligning with EU environmental objectives.

(c) Separate collection, takeback and collection points, preparation for reuse, repurposing and treatment

Spent batteries can be returned via: collection bins at retail points; municipal recycling centres; designated battery collection points. Collected batteries will undergo sorting, pretreatment (including neutralisation of electrolyte), and material recycling. Reuse or repurposing is generally not applicable for primary batteries, but material recovery is maximised.

(d) Safety instructions to handle waste batteries

Avoid storing waste batteries together with metal objects to prevent shortcircuiting. If a battery shows signs of leakage (e.g., white or crystalline residue), deformation, or overheating, handle it with protective gloves and store it separately in a plastic bag. Never dispose of batteries in fire, as this may cause explosion or release of hazardous fumes. Keep batteries out of reach of children. If swallowed, seek medical attention immediately.

(e) Meaning of labels and symbols (Article 13)

Crossed-out wheeled bin symbol: Indicates that the battery should not be disposed of with unsorted household waste; it must be separately collected.

CE marking: Indicates that the battery (or the device it is intended for) complies with applicable EU health, safety, and environmental protection requirements.

(f) Impact of substances on environment and human health

Primary batteries contain various materials (zinc, manganese, etc.). If improperly discarded (e.g., landfilled or incinerated), the electrolyte can leak and cause soil and water contamination; heavy metals may accumulate in the environment. Swallowing a battery can cause injury; batteries should be kept away from children. Inappropriate disposal increases environmental burdens, wastes recoverable materials, and may lead to fires or injuries during waste handling. Leaking batteries can cause chemical burns; always handle with care.

This information is provided to support endusers in responsible battery use and disposal, in line with EU waste legislation.

Related documents

Appendix 1 Battery Directive Report

Appendix 2 REACH Report

Appendix 5 IEC60086-5 Report

Appendix 6 IEC60086-1 -2 Report

Appendix 7 EU Declaration of Conformity