With EU Regulation 2023/1542, the European Union introduces new requirements for the management and safety of lithium batteries, reducing risks and ensuring greater sustainability.

Since lithium batteries are among the most widely used in a broad range of products, from electronic devices to electric vehicles, their safety has become a crucial issue: if not handled properly, they can pose significant safety risks in the event of malfunctions. To address these issues and ensure safe and sustainable battery management, the European Union has adopted Regulation EU 2023/1542, establishing a new regulatory framework for the management of batteries and battery waste.

THE INTRINSIC HAZARD OF LITHIUM BATTERIES

Lithium batteries present significant risks in the event of accidents or malfunctions. If damaged or misused, they can overheat, explode, catch fire, or release toxic gases, posing a threat to health and safety and causing severe damage. These incidents can occur due to short circuits, overcharging, or manufacturing defects, making strict regulation necessary to prevent greater risks.

EU REGULATION 2023/1542: A REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR SAFETY

Regulation EU 2023/1542, effective as of 18 February 2024, establishes a regulatory framework to rule the entire battery lifecycle – from production to recycling and disposal – to ensure safety, sustainability, and competitiveness in the EU market. The new regulation introduces stringent requirements for production, labeling, and waste treatment, with particular focus on lithium batteries, which are among the most widely used and potentially hazardous.

Regulation EU 2023/1542 applies to all battery categories, with the main requirements including:

• Safety and sustainability standards to minimize risks associated with use and disposal;
• Labeling and marking requirements to ensure transparency and traceability of batteries on the EU market;
• Performance and durability requirements to regulate battery life cycles;
• Obligations and responsibilities for economic operators to ensure battery compliance.

Economic operators producing, importing or distributing batteries must therefore ensure that the products meet the required standards, turning to a notified body for conformity verification where necessary.

ECM: THE PERFECT PARTNER TO VERIFY LITHIUM BATTERY COMPLIANCE

Thanks to our solid expertise in the sector and the training of our staff, Ente Certificazione Macchine is a reliable and qualified partner for conducting testing and conformity verification in line with applicable requirements. The success of our informative webinars on the new Regulation EU 2023/1542 demonstrates our everyday commitment to the market and companies.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you verify that your batteries are safe for the European market!

Marzia Pellegrini – Sales Manager ECM marzia.p@entecerma.it