Survey Shows Data Security Concerns are Affecting Recycling Rates
Everyday items such as laptops, smartphones, smart watches, etc., use lithium-ion batteries. Although these batteries are used daily and continuously, they become extremely dangerous if managed poorly, for instance, if they end up in the trash or recycling bin. Single-use, non-rechargeable, nontoxic, and dry cell batteries can be thrown out in the trash, not Lithium-ion batteries, as they will generate massive fires. Therefore, since laptops, smartphones, and smartwatches contain lithium-ion, they, too, should be disposed of with caution. While these products have a recycling symbol, that does not mean you can put the items into a recycling bin. It just signifies a particular way of recycling them. Also, if any of these rechargeable products have a trash can with an X through it, it implies the object contains lithium-ion batteries and needs to be disposed of properly. Lithium-ion batteries contain a flammable electrolyte that becomes harmful when handled as waste.
The pressure and heat these batteries acquire while in motion can cause them to spark and start a fire, so close attention needs to be made. The use of lithium-ion batteries is growing, and the only way to prevent these fires from forming is to manage the batteries properly. There are a few protocols we can follow to prevent and manage the risk of fires from happening.
Properly store and transport items
Properly handling these items is extremely important as mismanaging them will damage them, possibly leading them to put out electrolyte material. For storing lithium batteries, the most effective strategy is to design a system that would contain and suppress battery fire incidents. In addition, these particular batteries should be isolated from other battery materials and stored and shipped in things that will restrain fires and toxic burn by-products. Also, these batteries need to have close attention paid to them.
Training
Considering the challenges these batteries present to organizations that handle them, it’s essential to provide training on managing them. Everyone who encounters these batteries needs to be aware of their characteristics. In addition, the training should give insight into battery fire, how to approach and respond in an emergency and how to use a fire extinguisher, specifically for lithium-ion batteries.
HOBI provides safe methods of lithium-ion battery recycling and helps maximize the return value of retired IT assets. HOBI offers repair, refurbishment, remarketing, resale, and recycling services. Furthermore, HOBI prioritizes waste prevention by recovering and reusing products as long as possible and recycling those that are not functional.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.
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