Lithium-ion batteries are in just about everything—laptops, tablets, phones, scanners, wireless accessories, even some servers. Most of the time, they work without issue. But when it’s time to dispose of outdated IT equipment, these batteries become one of the most overlooked and dangerous parts of the process.
Fires caused by mishandled lithium batteries aren’t rare—they happen all the time in warehouses, transport vehicles, recycling facilities, and even garbage trucks. For organizations decommissioning dozens or hundreds of devices at once, especially during a refresh or seasonal cleanout, the risk can escalate quickly.
Why These Batteries Need Special Handling
Lithium-ion batteries are considered hazardous materials for good reason. When damaged, exposed to heat, or improperly stored, they can trigger a thermal runaway event—where the battery overheats, vents gas, ignites, and spreads fire to nearby materials. Once it starts, it’s hard to stop.
It doesn’t take much. A cracked tablet in the wrong bin, a punctured battery in a laptop stack, or a mislabeled box can cause major problems. Fires like these can shut down facilities, destroy equipment, and put people at risk.
How to Handle Lithium Batteries in IT Equipment
Whether you’re managing equipment at one site or across multiple departments, here’s how to reduce risk:
1. Identify what contains batteries.
If it charges, stores power, or operates wirelessly, it likely has a lithium battery—often hidden inside. Don’t assume a device is battery-free unless you’re sure.
2. Don’t try to remove embedded batteries unless you’re trained.
Removing them without proper tools or PPE can damage the battery and create a fire risk. If you’re unsure, leave the battery in and flag the device accordingly.
3. Label and store devices properly.
Keep battery-containing equipment separated, clearly labeled, and stored in a cool, dry space away from flammables. For bulk storage, use fire-resistant containers or approved totes.
4. Avoid heat exposure.
Don’t leave devices in hot rooms, near heating vents, or in direct sunlight. Elevated temperatures increase the likelihood of battery failure.
5. Follow DOT and EPA regulations when shipping.
Lithium batteries—even when embedded in devices—are regulated in transit. If your organization is shipping old equipment, you may be subject to packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements.
For a deeper dive into this topic, listen to our podcast episode featuring SEAM’s Vice President and Compliance Engineer, where we discuss lithium battery handling in detail:
Listen to the episode
The danger isn’t just physical. Mishandling lithium batteries can result in regulatory violations, insurance complications, injuries, and even full facility evacuations. Any organization managing end-of-life IT equipment should treat battery safety as part of their risk management and compliance strategy.
When you’re ready to ensure your batteries—and your devices—are handled securely and responsibly, SEAM can help.
Clint Parsons is the Director of Strategy and Information at SEAM, specializing in building partnerships with businesses of all sizes. He ensures clients effectively navigate secure data destruction, responsible recycling, and maximize the resale value of their IT equipment while staying compliant with evolving regulations.