Battery Recycling Safety
Do I have to do anything to my batteries before recycling them?
It depends on the battery. Transportation Canada safety regulations require that the terminals of certain battery types be protected to prevent contact with each other, as this can cause sparks and lead to a fire. Therefore, before depositing any rechargeable batteries, lithium-based single-use batteries, single-use batteries that are 12V or more, or batteries you are unsure of, make sure they are placed in a clear, sealed bag or taped with duct tape, electrical tape or another non-conductive tape. Ensure to keep the battery chemistry visible if you tape it.
If I miss protecting some of the batteries, what are the potential consequences?
Our #1 safety goal is to prevent battery terminals from touching and possibly sparking before they are shipped or while they are in transit. Organizations that don’t properly protect their batteries may face fines from Transportation Canada and may not be able to participate in the Call2Recycle program.
Why can’t I return a box via air?
Transportation Canada places very stringent restrictions on the shipment of certain batteries by air due to safety considerations. Our program prohibits air shipments. If you are located in a remote location, you can transport the batteries by truck, rail or boat to the nearest municipality served by Purolator. Once there, the batteries can be shipped to Call2Recycle using the waybill provided. Please call Customer Service if you have questions about coordinating these shipments.
Can I use paper, other boxes, towels or other materials to protect the terminals?
Because paper-based products are flammable and can act as kindling, they are not an approved method of protection. If you are depositing any rechargeable batteries, lithium-based single-use batteries, single-use batteries that are 12V or more, or batteries you are unsure of, make sure they are placed in a clear, sealed bag or taped with duct tape, electrical tape or another non-conductive tape. Ensure to keep the battery chemistry visible if you tape it. Do not use paper or other materials to protect your terminals.
Does every battery need a bag?
No. Transportation Canada safety regulations require that the terminals of certain battery types be protected to prevent contact with each other, as this can cause sparks and lead to a fire. Here is the proper way to protect your batteries to ensure they are recycled safely:
For single-use lithium-based batteries, single-use batteries that are 12V or more, rechargeable batteries, or batteries whose chemistry/voltage you are unsure of: Place the battery in one of the clear bags provided with the Call2Recycle box or tape the terminal end with duct tape, electrical tape or another non-conductive tape for safety (keeping the chemistry visible) before depositing.
All other batteries: Deposit the battery directly in the Call2Recycle box.
If you run out of Call2Recycle bags, you can use a clear, Ziploc-style or clear grocery produce bag. Be sure to close off the top before depositing in the Call2Recycle box. For the complete list of batteries with terminals that must be protected to comply with these requirements, please consult the Call2Recycle Canada web site, www.call2recycle.ca/safety/collections-shipping.
What do we do if we have a defective, damaged (e.g. swollen), or recalled (DDR) battery?
Contact Customer Service. They will review with you whether the battery requires special handling. DDR batteries must be shipped in packaging that complies with Transportation Canada requirements for the transportation of damaged, defective or recalled batteries.
Battery Recycling Safety
One of the program’s primary commitments as North America’s most comprehensive battery recycling program is to safely and efficiently transport batteries from 34,000 collection locations to the recycling facilities throughout the U.S. and Canada.
To view our full listing of certifications and audits click here.