Spent Lead-Acid Batteries

Because of the toxic components of batteries, RCRA has established special regulations for spent batteries of all types. These special regulations are included in what is referred to as the Universal Waste Rule (refer to 40 CFR 273). Spent lead-acid batteries can be managed under the Universal Waste Rule. However, they are more commonly managed as described in this section. Once a lead-acid battery is spent, it becomes hazardous waste because of the lead that it contains. For these reasons, the reclamation and recycling of spent lead-acid batteries are regulated under RCRA (refer to 40 CFR 266.80).

Recycling batteries is one way to prevent the buildup of lead in the waste stream and, consequently, in landfills. In this process, recyclers can recover the lead from spent lead-acid batteries. Spent lead-acid batteries can also be reclaimed by a variety of different methods. One method commonly used to reclaim a battery is regeneration - that is, making the battery work again by using a battery regenerator. RCRA outlines the specific regulations and exemptions that apply for different reclamation procedures.

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