08/14/2026
Lithium-ion batteries are found in more business equipment than many people realize: laptops, cordless tools, mobile devices, scanners, e-cigarettes, backup power units, and rechargeable electronics.
When these batteries are placed in recycling or trash bins, they can be crushed, punctured, or damaged during collection and sorting. A damaged battery can short-circuit and enter thermal runaway—a rapid overheating event that may cause smoke, fire, or explosion.
For commercial recycling operations, one misplaced battery can put employees, collection vehicles, sorting equipment, and entire facilities at risk. These fires are difficult to control and can cause expensive equipment damage and significant service interruptions.
The safer option: Keep batteries out of all recycling and waste containers. Set up a designated battery collection point, train employees on proper disposal, and work with a qualified battery recycler for pickup or drop-off solutions.
Proper battery recycling is not just a sustainability step—it is an important workplace safety practice.