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Packing Batteries
Before Packing
Are Batteries Damaged, Defective, or Recalled(DDR)?
Shipping batteries means transporting a hazardous material regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).
All batteries carry a fire risk—but damaged, defective, or recalled (DDR) batteries present a significantly higher danger. Batteries, including those that have been misused or abused, are more prone to igniting through a process known as thermal runaway.
If Not Damaged, Defective, or Recalled Mixed Batteries (Including Lithium-Ion)
1
Prepare
Remove the lid and place the liner inside the pail.
2
Protect
Protect battery terminals using nonconductive tape, or place each battery in an individual bag or its original packaging.
3
Place
Place the protected batteries onto the thermal suppressant, leaving 1–2 inches of space between each battery.
4
Seal
Securely tie the liner bag, place the lid on the pail, and lock it into position.
If Damaged, Defective, or Recalled Mixed Batteries (Including Lithium-Ion)
1
Prepare
Remove the lid and place the liner inside the pail.
2
Base
Add a minimum of 1–2 inches of thermal suppressant to the bottom of the pail.
3
Protect
Protect battery terminals using nonconductive tape, or place each battery in an individual bag or its original packaging.
4
Place
Place the protected batteries onto the thermal suppressant, leaving 1–2 inches of space between each battery.
5
Layer
Cover the batteries with a layer of thermal suppressant. Continue layering batteries and thermal suppressant as needed.
6
Fill
Leave at least 2 inches of space at the top of the pail, then fill the remaining space with thermal suppressant.
7
Seal
Securely tie the liner bag, place the lid on the pail, and lock it into position.
*NLR works with one of the most effective lithium-ion battery fire extinguishing agents on the market—designed for both active firefighting and prevention.
CellBlockEX is a mineral-based solution made from non-crystalline glass granules: lightweight, porous spheres that absorb heat and help contain thermal events. Because it’s 100% mineral-based, it is non-combustible and safe for both users and the environment.
BATTERY CHEMISTRY
Are You Required to Insulate Terminals?
Lithium
​YES
NiCd
​YES
NiMH
​YES
Alkaline
1.5V, 6V, and 9V alkaline batteries stored ONLY with other alkaline batteries do not require terminal insulation. However, if any other battery chemistries are present, all batteries must have their terminals insulated.
Make An Impact With Smarter Recycling *
Built with Quality You Can Rely On
NLR Returns containers are made from durable materials and tested for real-world use. From assembly to shipment, every box meets strict quality standards to protect your waste and your workplace.
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