What are Button and Coin Batteries
Button and coin batteries are small, disc-shaped batteries commonly used in various household items, including remote controls, toys, hearing aids, Audio/Video and Industrial (Measurement, control and laboratory) domain products and other electronic devices. Despite their widespread use, these batteries pose significant safety risks, especially to children, due to their small size and high energy density. In response to these risks, Australia has implemented stringent safety regulations to protect consumers, particularly young children, from the hazards associated with button and coin batteries.
Regulatory Framework
Australia’s regulatory approach to button and coin batteries is governed by several key standards and legislative measures. These regulations are designed to minimize the risk of accidental ingestion or injury and to ensure that batteries are used, stored, transported, and disposed of safely.
Standards
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) enforces mandatory safety standards for products containing button and coin batteries. These standards apply to both the batteries themselves and any products that house them.
Key requirements include:
– Secure Battery Compartments: Products must have secure battery compartments that prevent children from accessing the batteries without the aid of a tool or two simultaneous independent actions.
– Warning Labels: Products containing button or coin batteries must feature clear and conspicuous warning labels on the packaging and within the product manual. These warnings must highlight the dangers of ingestion and provide information on what to do if a battery is swallowed.
Product Testing:
Manufacturers are required to test their products to ensure compliance with these standards before they can be sold in Australia.
Product-Specific Standards
Several Australian standards provide detailed requirements for the design, packaging, and testing of button and coin batteries and the products that contain them. These include:
– AS/NZS 62368.1: This standard applies to audio, video, information, and communication technology equipment. It includes provisions for ensuring that battery compartments are designed to prevent access by children and that products undergo rigorous safety testing. Safety test cases as per AS/NZS 62368.1, Clause 4.8 (Stress relief test, battery replacement test, drop test, impact test and crush test) applicable for equipment containing coin or button cell batteries.
– AS/NZS 60086-4: This standard specifies safety requirements for primary (non-rechargeable) lithium batteries, including button and coin cells. It covers aspects such as cell design, packaging, labeling, transportation, and disposal to mitigate the risks associated with battery use and disposal.
AS/NZS 61010.1:-This standard covers electrical equipment used for measurement, control, and laboratory purposes, ensuring secure battery compartments to prevent child access and mitigate safety risks like shock or fire.
-AS/NZS 60335.1: Focused on household appliances, this standard mandates safe battery compartments and proper labeling to prevent accidental battery access and ingestion, especially by children.
– AS/NZS 60065: This standard pertains to the safety of electronic equipment for household and similar general use. It includes specific requirements for products that contain button and coin batteries, ensuring they meet safety standards to prevent accidents.
– AS/NZS 62115: This standard covers the safety of electric toys, including those powered by button and coin batteries. It mandates secure battery compartments and appropriate warning labels to prevent children from accessing batteries.
Transportation and Storage
Button and coin batteries are subject to specific regulations regarding their transportation and storage to prevent incidents during transit:
– Transportation: Button and coin batteries must be transported in accordance with the Australian Dangerous Goods Code, which outlines the requirements for packaging, labeling, and documentation. Batteries should be packed in a way that prevents short-circuiting and accidental activation during transit. This is aligned with the IEC 62281 standard, which specifies requirements for the safe transport of primary and secondary lithium batteries.
– Storage: Batteries should be stored in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Storage areas should be secure and inaccessible to children. The IEC 60086-5 standard provides guidance on the safe storage of primary batteries, including environmental conditions and handling precautions. Additionally, UL 1642 (Standard for Lithium Batteries) is often referenced for the safety of lithium battery storage, focusing on preventing potential hazards related to improper storage conditions.
Legislation
The Australian Consumer Law (ACL) provides the legal framework for enforcing these safety standards. Non-compliance with the regulations can result in significant penalties, including fines and product recalls.
Voluntary Codes of Practice
In addition to mandatory standards, there are also voluntary codes of practice that manufacturers and retailers are encouraged to follow. These include guidelines for packaging, labeling, promoting consumer awareness about the dangers of button and coin batteries, and best practices for transportation and storage.
Risk Management and Mitigation
Manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers have a shared responsibility to ensure that button and coin batteries are sold and used safely. This includes:
– Design Considerations: Products should be designed with safety in mind, ensuring that battery compartments are secure and difficult for children to access.
– Packaging: Button and coin batteries should be sold in child-resistant packaging to prevent accidental access. Packaging should also feature clear warnings about the risks of ingestion.
– Consumer Education: Manufacturers and retailers should educate consumers about the potential dangers associated with button and coin batteries and the importance of proper storage, handling, transportation, and disposal. This can be achieved through product labeling, in-store displays, and public awareness campaigns.
Disposal and Recycling
Proper disposal of button and coin batteries is critical to preventing environmental harm and further safety risks. Consumers are encouraged to dispose of used batteries at designated recycling centers or through battery recycling programs. Improper disposal, such as throwing batteries in the trash, can lead to environmental contamination and pose a risk to waste management workers.
Compliance and Enforcement
The ACCC actively monitors the market for compliance with button and coin battery safety regulations. This includes conducting random product inspections, investigating complaints, and enforcing penalties for non-compliance. Retailers and manufacturers are urged to stay informed about the latest regulatory updates and ensure that their products meet all safety requirements.
Conclusion
The safety regulations surrounding button and coin batteries in Australia are designed to protect consumers, particularly young children, from the significant risks these small but powerful batteries pose. Through mandatory standards, effective risk management, and a commitment to consumer education, Australia aims to reduce the incidence of battery-related injuries and ensure that these products are used safely and responsibly.
C-PRAV offers fully accredited testing for products containing coin/button cell batteries as per regulatory requirements.
