Defra’s Latest POPs Guidelines for Lead Acid Batteries
New Guidance on Lead Acid Batteries Containing Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Issued by Defra
In a recent update, Defra has released new guidelines regarding the waste management of lead acid batteries that either contain or potentially contain Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). This guidance outlines specific procedures for classifying and handling these batteries to ensure proper environmental protection.
Classification of Battery Cases
According to the new regulations:
- Polypropylene Plastic: Battery cases made solely of polypropylene should not contain POPs.
- Other Plastics: Battery cases made from other plastics, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), may contain POPs.
When preparing waste consignment notes, it is mandatory to describe lead acid batteries that might contain POPs as “containing POPs.”
Required Chemical Listings
The following chemicals must be disclosed in the battery’s composition:
- Decabromodiphenyl ether
- Hexabromodiphenyl ether
- Antimony trioxide
Destruction Methods for POPs-Containing Batteries
To comply with POPs regulations, lead acid batteries that contain or are suspected to contain POPs must be destroyed using one of the following methods:
- Incineration: Utilise an incinerator classified as D10 or R1 (for hazardous waste, municipal waste, or cement kiln).
- Metal Smelting: Employ a metal smelter classified under R4 to destroy the POPs.
Ensure that the facilities chosen are authorised to handle POPs waste.
Handling and Storage Protocols
Pre-treatment of batteries with POPs is permissible only for the purpose of separating the plastic cases that contain POPs, which are then to be packaged for further processing. The temporary storage or repackaging of POPs-containing batteries is only allowed until pre-treatment or destruction occurs.
Export Regulations
The export of lead acid batteries that contain POPs is strictly regulated and permitted only for destruction purposes. Exporters must:
- Notify the Environment Agency of the export from England to foreign destinations.
- Obtain consent from the Environment Agency for the export of such waste.
Identifying POPs-Containing Lead Acid Batteries
To determine if lead acid batteries contain POPs, check the following:
- The type of plastic used in the battery case.
- Presence of bromine within the polymer.
With appropriate conditions, x-ray fluorescence (XRF) scanning can be employed to detect bromine, a potential indicator of brominated flame retardants, including POPs.
For comprehensive compliance with these guidelines, ensure thorough understanding and implementation of the prescribed methods and regulations.