Commercial SSLA Battery Recycling Program

Why should I participate?

A number of states now require that companies that sell small sealed lead acid (SSLA) batteries, or devices that are designed to utilize them, participate in a program that removes these batteries from the waste stream and recycles them. For example, under Florida state law, used small sealed lead acid batteries must be recycled to prevent the lead in these batteries from entering the waste stream. The SSLA Battery Collection Program, administered by PRBA member companies, meets these requirements and is simple and free of charge. It offers an easy method for your company to comply with state regulations and do your part for the environment. Also, there are no sign-up requirements or contract commitments.

The SSLA Battery Collection Program makes your company’s role as easy as possible. It provides convenient collection points throughout the state for used SSLA batteries. Each collection point has an established relationship with a fully permitted secondary lead smelter and will accept used SSLA batteries at no charge. To take part, a business simply collects used batteries, packages them carefully in accordance with a brochure that PRBA provides and ships them to a nearby collection point. Information on how to participate in this program is available by calling 202.719.4978.

What are SSLA batteries?

"Small sealed lead acid" batteries are used for uninterruptable power supplies; emergency lighting; fire and security alarms; commercial videos and medical devices. This program collects SSLA batteries that contain a gel or liquid-starved electrolyte and weigh 25 pounds or less. The program accepts all used SSLA batteries collected and shipped to collection points.

To participate, follow these simple steps:

1. Collect used SSLA batteries
   
   Equipment system manufacturers, dealers, installers and service providers who replace SSLA batteries should collect the used batteries and return them for recycling.
   
   
2. Protect against short-circuiting
   
   Even though a SSLA battery has been replaced, it may contain a residual charge. To protect against short-circuiting, take at least one of the following precautions:
   • Cover the terminal of each battery with non-conductive tape.
   • Put each battery is a separate plastic bag to prevent terminals from touching other batteries or metal surfaces during shipping and transportation.
   • Arrange batteries carefully for shipment to prevent terminals from touching other batteries or shifting during transport.
   • Discharge the cells. Only a knowledgeable engineer or technician should use this method. Consult your battery supplier for more information.
     
     
3. Shipping Instructions
   
   Call 202.719.4978, to find the location of the nearest collection site that participates in this SSLA Battery Collection Program.
   
   Shipments under 70 pounds should be packaged in sturdy cardboard boxes, preferable double-walled boxes, which can be obtained from a local carton supplier. A box with dimensions of 8" X 8" X 8" will hold about 50 pounds of batteries. The box should be packed snugly to reduce the possibility of the contents shifting during transport and sealed securely with packing tape. If necessary, empty space in the box can be filled with vermiculite, but never use paper or other flammable materials.
   
   Larger shipments should be coordinated with your local consolidation site to see if they have any particular shipping requirements.
   
   
4. General Information
   
   The organizations identified by our toll-free phone system have agreed to accept properly packaged used SSLA batteries at no charge. Please follow standard shipping documentation procedures, such as bill of lading processes, for all shipments.
   
   By law, the packaging for SSLA batteries must be marked clearly with the words "NONSPILLABLE BATTERY". Always store batteries indoor, in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials.

If you have any additional questions or if you would like more information on the program, please contact:

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