In a groundbreaking move, the New South Wales (NSW) government has announced new legislation aimed at the safe handling and disposal of lithium batteries, which are known to pose significant fire risks. The proposed bill introduced in state parliament outlines mandatory regulations for manufacturers and suppliers of commonly used products, with initial focus on batteries identified as a critical safety concern by fire authorities.
Annually, between 10,000 and 12,000 fires occur at waste facilities involving trucks, primarily due to the improper disposal, usage, and design flaws of lithium batteries. Over the past year alone, Fire and Rescue NSW documented 384 incidents related to lithium-ion batteries, resulting in several fatalities and more than 30 injuries.
Under the forthcoming laws, battery suppliers will be mandated to register their products, ensuring safe disposal or recycling at designated collection points. Additionally, suppliers must enhance the design, packaging, importation, and storage practices of batteries to improve safety and recyclability. Public education campaigns will also be part of these regulations.
The legislation will encompass smaller embedded batteries found in everyday items like cordless vacuums, electric toothbrushes, children’s toys, e-bikes, and e-scooters. Environment Minister Penny Sharpe highlighted the increasing reliance on batteries as Australia transitions away from fossil fuel energy. However, she cautioned that without stringent safety measures, the risk of injuries, fatalities, and property damage will persist.
With these new laws, NSW positions itself as the first state in Australia to regulate the sale and disposal of batteries, signifying a crucial step in enhancing safety and environmental responsibility.