Regulatory Exclusions

The regulations for spent lead-acid batteries apply only to the people who actually perform the reclamation of the batteries, not to the people who merely handle the batteries. For example, people who generate, transport, regenerate, collect, or store spent lead-acid batteries prior to reclamation are not governed by the regulations for spent-lead batteries. This exclusion does not apply to the owners and operators of facilities that store batteries with the intent to reclaim them, unless the batteries have been regenerated.

Also, be aware that not all spent lead-acid batteries are subject to the RCRA requirements for hazardous waste management. Choose either of the following methods to determine how to manage your spent lead-acid batteries:

• Use the table in the RCRA regulation 40 CFR 266.80 to determine if the regulations apply to your spent lead-acid batteries. If they do, follow the regulations provided in the table.
• Manage your spent lead-acid batteries according to the "Universal Waste" rule (refer to 40 CFR 273).

To learn more about RCRA safety standards visit our RCRA Refresher Online Training web page.