Euralarm’s new position paper on battery regulation

Euralarm has released a Position Paper aimed at assisting Market Surveillance Authorities in interpreting the EU Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 concerning batteries and waste batteries.

As reported by Euralarm, this Position Paper focuses on batteries typically used in fire safety, life safety, and security systems.

The document highlights the types of batteries found in panels and alarm transmitters while excluding those used in wireless detectors due to differing applications and technologies.

The paper aims to clarify how the regulation impacts these batteries, particularly regarding their classification and intended use.

Classification of industrial batteries

According to the Euralarm Position Paper, the EU Battery Regulation categorises batteries based on their design and use, rather than their chemistry.

The paper emphasises that batteries used in safety and security systems are classified as industrial batteries, irrespective of their weight.

Euralarm explains that this classification affects how these batteries are regulated, particularly in emergency power systems.

Such batteries serve as secondary power sources in fire alarm panels and must comply with the harmonised standard EN 54-4 under the Construction Products Regulation.

Impact on existing systems

The Position Paper stresses the importance of the regulation’s impact on both new installations and existing systems.

Euralarm points out that the maintenance of existing systems, which have been designed and certified for specific battery types, is crucial for their reliability and safety.

The paper notes that while the life expectancy of these systems is several decades, the batteries typically last only 4-7 years.

Therefore, the ongoing availability of industrial batteries is critical for the maintenance of millions of safety and security systems across Europe.

Conclusion of the position paper

Euralarm’s Position Paper concludes that batteries installed in fire, life safety, and security panels as secondary power sources should be classified as industrial batteries.

This classification exempts them from certain substance restrictions under the EU Battery Regulation.

The paper cites the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection’s agreement with this interpretation.

Euralarm also warns that a reduction in demand and production of smaller batteries may affect prices but emphasises that availability must not be compromised.

Read the Euralarm Position Paper on Battery Regulation here.