Urging an extension to the Batteries Regulation exemption

Euralarm has formally requested the European Commission to extend the scope of Article 11(3) exemptions under the EU Batteries Regulation to cover smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and gas alarms.

These devices, crucial for human life protection in residential environments, must adhere to specific criteria, including being designed to save lives, conforming to EN product standards, equipped with a 10-year battery life, and featuring easily removable batteries for recycling purposes.

The organisation emphasises that only products meeting these four stringent criteria should qualify for the exemption.

The rationale behind the exemption request

The appeal stems from a recognized need for these life-saving devices to have non-removable, long-life batteries, contrasting with the general preference for user-replaceable batteries in electronic devices.

Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and gas alarms are essential for early warning in residential settings, with many designed to function effectively for a decade without battery replacement.

This design choice, which includes the use of permanently soldered batteries, aims to ensure device reliability and prevent safety risks that could arise from user intervention.

IFSJ Comment

The initiative by Euralarm to advocate for the inclusion of smoke, carbon monoxide, and gas alarms in the exemption from Article 11(3) of the EU Batteries Regulation represents a crucial step towards harmonizing regulatory standards with the practical safety needs of residential environments.

These devices serve an indispensable role in protecting lives by providing early warnings of fire, smoke, or gas leaks.

The proposal acknowledges the balance between environmental considerations, such as battery recycling, and the paramount importance of life safety.

If accepted, this exemption would ensure that safety devices can continue to operate reliably over their intended lifespan without compromising their effectiveness or the safety of the occupants.