Federal officials are holding a series of free workshops around the country to teach e-scrap companies and others how to safely handle lithium-ion batteries.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and U.S. EPA are holding the workshops in Atlanta; Lenexa, Kan. (near Kansas City); Chicago; and Fremont, Calif. (in the San Francisco Bay Area). The first two start later this month.
At the three-hour workshops, which are aimed at a waste and recycling industry audience, experts will discuss how to prevent, reduce or eliminate risks of fire or explosions from improper packaging, marking, labeling or recycling of lithium-ion batteries. The events are designed for professionals who need a working knowledge of federal regulations or who train employees on regulations.
Lithium-ion batteries have received greater attention in recent years for the dangers they can pose in e-scrap facilities and other types of recycling operations. Last fall, the EPA hosted a discussion on the ongoing lithium-ion battery challenge, during which processors offered some tips to avoid facility accidents.
