Stricter Rules Proposed for Battery Treatment and Storage Sites / Facilities
The Environment Agency has released draft guidance that could significantly impact operators of battery treatment and storage sites handling waste batteries, including those in the scrap metal and end-of-life vehicle (ELV) sectors.
The guidance document, titled Waste Batteries: Appropriate Measures for Permitted Facilities, is currently under public consultation. Although designed for sites that process batteries, approximately half of the 37-page document focuses on waste acceptance, secure storage, and accident management procedures—key operational areas relevant to a wider range of businesses.
Click here to read the full draft guidance (PDF)
Make your voice count!
Click here to share your feedback with the Environment Agency.
Key Points of the Draft Guidance for Battery Treatment Sites
- Enhanced Waste Acceptance Procedures – Detailed pre-acceptance and acceptance documentation will become mandatory, with records to be maintained consistently.
- Stricter Storage Requirements – Batteries must be stored under cover, on surfaces with a blind sump drainage system, unless the site has legal consent to discharge to sewer.
- Comprehensive Accident Management Plans – All facilities must prepare a robust plan that outlines storage areas, volume limits, risk assessments, and preventative measures.
- Mandatory Electronic Stock Control – Sites must implement a digital system, either a weighbridge or Excel-based, that can automatically generate stock reports.
The guidance also dedicates substantial sections to best practices for handling and safe containment of batteries.
Timeline & Compliance Expectations
- New Sites: Guidance applies immediately upon permitting.
- Existing Sites: The Environment Agency will conduct permit reviews of battery treatment and storage sites and may require amendments to bring operations in line. Even where variations aren’t mandatory, officers are expected to prioritise this guidance during inspections.
This consultation is a rare opportunity for operators to shape future policy. Your feedback could influence how practical and proportionate these requirements turn out to be.
Make your voice count!
Click here to share your feedback with the Environment Agency.
Stay Ahead of Regulatory Change with AC Environmental
With over 40 years of experience, AC Environmental supports businesses across England and Wales in navigating complex environmental regulations, now more important than ever with the Environment Agency’s draft guidance set to impact battery storage and treatment sites.
Whether you’re a waste operator, scrap metal processor, or ELV site, we help you stay compliant and efficient with services including:
- Permit applications – Expert support to meet evolving regulatory requirements.
- Fire prevention plans – Aligned with the latest safety expectations for battery storage.
- Environmental management systems – Built for resilience, sustainability, and compliance.
- COTC Cover – Providing qualified personnel to meet site competency standards.
📞 Call us on 01782 308 444 to discuss how we can help you adapt to the new guidance.
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Let’s work together to keep your operations safe, compliant, and future-ready.
