Regulated battery separate-collection markSeparate collection
Crossed-out wheeled bin for batteries
The crossed-out wheeled bin on a battery means the battery must not be discarded with unsorted household waste.
Battery binEuropean Union / EEA and markets using equivalent marking
At a glance
What this symbol means
Waste batteries require a separate collection or take-back route because they contain recoverable materials and can present fire or chemical risks.
Chemical symbols such as Pb or Cd may appear beneath the bin when regulatory thresholds are met.
Recognition
How to recognise it
- A wheeled bin is crossed out on the battery or its packaging.
- Small batteries may carry the mark on the packaging when direct marking would be too small.
Typical applications
Where it commonly appears
- portable household batteries
- rechargeable battery packs
- vehicle, industrial and e-mobility batteries
Practical decision
How to sort or dispose of it
- Use a battery collection point, retailer take-back or authorised hazardous/electrical route.
- Follow local instructions for large, damaged, swollen or leaking batteries.
- Do not place lithium batteries loose in mixed recycling.
Before disposal or return
- Tape exposed terminals when the collection guidance recommends it.
- Keep different batteries from short-circuiting.
- Place leaking batteries in suitable protective containment and seek operator advice.
Avoid contamination
Common mistakes
Putting batteries inside a device collection bin when the battery should be removed first.
Carrying loose batteries with metal objects.
Opening or crushing battery packs.
Important limitation
What it does not mean
It does not identify the battery chemistry, confirm that the battery is safe, or tell you to open the battery.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can batteries go in household recycling?
Use a dedicated battery route, not an ordinary packaging recycling bin.
What if the battery is built into a device?
Follow the device and collection operator instructions; do not force removal.
What do Pb and Cd below the bin mean?
They identify regulated heavy-metal content above specified thresholds.
Verification
Sources
Sources checked 15 August 2026
Continue identifying
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