Are all household batteries the same size?

Yes, the common household battery has the same size everywhere in the world. Although they can have different names. For example, the most common size battery is the AA battery. However, this battery size is referred to as “R6” by the IEC 60086 standard, “15” by the ANSI C18 standard, and “UM-3” by the JIS.

Can waste batteries be collected under universal waste standards?

Waste batteries that are classified as hazardous waste can be collected under the streamlined collection standards for universal waste. These universal waste standards were created in an attempt to make it easier to collect the waste batteries and send them for recycling (or proper treatment and disposal).

What are common household batteries?

Common household batteries include: Both single-use and rechargeable versions of these commonly used batteries exist in the market today. Single-use batteries are meant to be once until drained and then disposed of. Rechargeable batteries are meant to be recharged after they are drained and then reused.

Are batteries a hazardous waste?

Batteries exhibiting hazardous characteristics may be classified as a type of hazardous waste called “universal waste”. Universal wastes pose a lower immediate risk to people and the environment when handled properly. Their lower risk allows them to be handled and transported under more relaxed rules compared to other hazardous wastes.

Are universal waste batteries safe?

Therefore, universal waste batteries are intended to be intact (i.e., where the casing of each individual battery cell is not breached). EPA recognizes that batteries may become damaged or broken during handling.

Do retailers take back universal waste batteries?

Although retailers are not required to take back any other kind of universal waste batteries, many voluntarily take back alkaline (e.g., non-rechargeable AA and AAA batteries) and other universal waste batteries. Check with your local retailer (s) to learn about their battery recycling options.