With our industry now evidently aware of its role in preserving the environment and promoting a socially responsible status, it is no surprise that we are seeing an ever-increasing demand for, and supply of, battery technology – with it emerging as a popular power source for many types of equipment in our sector. Within the last decade, developments in battery technology have accelerated, but our understanding of the various obligations regarding the life-cycle of battery powered equipment isn’t always clear. The AEA’s Matt Fasham recently delivered an update to members covering the key considerations.

Battery technology brings many benefits not just to perceptions, but to real performance and overall user experience. For this to be maximised, operators of battery-powered equipment must consider all aspects of its ownership – including transportation, storage and handling to servicing, maintenance and end-of-life disposal.

Currently, there are no independent or college-based courses tailored specifically to the agricultural or groundcare industries, however some training courses have transposable units such as those offered on Marine electrical awareness and maintenance as well as various industrial electrical courses offered by most colleges. Those interested in obtaining more information or exploring EV and health & safety qualifications in more detail are encouraged to speak with their local college.

Rules regarding the transportation of batteries differs depending on whether the battery is lithium or non-lithium. In the case of non-lithium, general safe handling should be adhered to. Individual cells/batteries should be segregated and packaged separately to any metals or conducting devices. The transportation of lithium batteries is governed by the following regulations – UN3480, UN3841 and UN3490. Lithium cells ‘C’ size and above are categorised as ‘Dangerous Goods’ and should be packaged and labelled as such. Cells containing less than 2g of lithium are exempt from being classified as ‘Dangerous’ but still require special labelling.

With regard to storage, best practice is to store the batteries in cool, dry and well-ventilated areas – an ambient temperature of between 10oc and 25oc is ideal. Temperatures of over 30oc, extreme humidity and areas of moisture or potential leaks should all be avoided. Batteries, lithium or non-lithium, should not be stored or mixed with conductors. They should also not be stored in hermetically sealed containers.

When handling batteries, following general health & safety guidelines will ensure safe working practices – the level of protection required will be determined by the type and size of battery in question. The correct PPE should be worn – gloves, eye protection, boots and/or plastic aprons when required. Measures should be in place to avoid short-circuiting the cells by removing metal objects from pockets, hands and arms, and by using the appropriate tooling. Equally, steps should be taken to prevent fire by not smoking, removing any potential ignition sources and only handling/operating batteries in well ventilated areas.

Guidance on servicing and maintaining batteries is where things become a little more complex! Having risk assessments in place is a good starting point, together with obtaining the correct training from manufacturers or local colleges. Calculations are available online to provide guidance on charging and ventilation requirements which will vary depending on the number of cells in the battery, current and dilution factor.

A lot of good information can also be found online about waste batteries and end-of-life disposal. The first stage in working out what regulations you must follow is to define the type of battery you are trying to dispose of. A portable battery or battery pack is a battery which meets all of the following criteria:
  • Sealed
  • Weights 4kg or below
  • Not an automotive or industrial battery
  • Not designed for industrial or professional use
An industrial battery or battery pack is one of any size or weight, that meets one of the following characteristics:
  • Designed for industrial or professional use
  • Used as a power source for propulsion in an electric or hybrid vehicle
  • Unsealed but not an automotive battery
  • Sealed but not a portable battery

The answers to the above questions will determine the correct method of disposal. For portable batteries, organisations must ensure they are registered with the correct battery compliance scheme or environmental regulator, who can then coordinate collections using approved and licensed waster transporters. Additional information must be provided by those looking to dispose of industrial batteries before waste is sent to an approved battery treatment operative (ABTO) or approved battery exporter (ABE) for treatment and recycling.

More information on waste batteries, and battery safety in general, can be found by visiting the gov.uk website.