After next week, alarm installers who throw away spent
burglar, fire and smoke alarm batteries in the trash will
be breaking the law. On Feb. 9, a ban on throwing away most
batteries in the trash will go into effect in the state.
Instead, the batteries – whether it is the small, sealed
lead-acid batteries used in many alarm systems or even the
AA batteries used in toys – must be taken to a household
hazardous waste collection or recycling facility.
The ban is actually an expansion of a law, known as
the “Universal Waste Rule,” that has been law in California
since February 2002. Up until now, the law has excluded
small businesses and households. However, per the 2002 law,
that sunset clause expires on Feb. 9.
California has classified most batteries as a “universal
waste” and passed the new law as a way to keep hazardous
waste out of landfills.
Those found to be in violation of the law would be subject
to fines. However, even the text of the law seems to make
clear that enforcement and punishment to violators of the
new law will likely be limited to chronic abusers.
For more information on California’s Universal Waste Rule,
HREF=’http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/HazardousWaste/UniversalWaste/i
ndex.cfm’ TARGET=’_blank’>click here.
