their maintenance agreements and to include emergency and exit lighting battery recycling . There is no fee to apply for signatory status .
Battery recyclers operating in Queensland include CMA Ecocycle , MRI and PF Metals and their contact details are available from the EXITCYCLE website . Collection options for these batteries include plastic buckets and cardboard boxes . The recyclers collect the batteries and then separate them into their different chemistries . The batteries are partly processed in Australia with the final battery recycling process completed offshore .
Importantly , Lighting Council Australia has recently developed a timeline for the reduction in the use of environmentally hazardous batteries in emergency and exit lighting . This transition has been agreed with ELSiG members and has been communicated to the Australian Government . The industry will move to the newer lithium iron phosphate ( LiFePO4 ) battery technology .
Lithium iron phosphate batteries
Recent developments in battery technology have led to the move away from nickel cadmium , nickel metal hydride and sealed lead acid batteries in emergency and exit lighting . Batteries using lithium iron phosphate are more technologically effective and offer a better environmental alternative . The batteries are also smaller and lighter . There has been strong interest in this new battery technology from facility managers at larger corporates and government agencies even though the newer emergency and exit light solutions are currently a more expensive option . Building managers are recognising that the newer technology may offer better long-term outcomes .
For more information please visit www . exitcycle . org . au
GOVLINK ยป ISSUE 3 2016