Euralarm has released a revised position paper concerning Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, offering insights to Market Surveillance Authorities and industry stakeholders on classifying batteries used in fire, life safety, and security systems under the new EU Battery Regulation.
Framework for battery categorisation
This regulation establishes a framework classifying batteries based on their intended design and use rather than their chemical composition. Euralarm supports the regulation's sustainability goals but emphasises the importance of consistent application in safety-critical situations.
According to the position paper, batteries functioning as secondary or standby power sources in fire and security control panels, power supply units, and alarm transmitters should be identified as industrial batteries. This classification is based on their design and intended use, independent of the batteries' weight being below 5 kg.
Industrial usage and market Integration
Euralarm says European authorities classify alarm system batteries as industrialThe document clarifies that these batteries are marketed, installed, maintained, and disposed of within business-to-business service networks. They are essential components for distributing stored electrical energy during power failures, which the regulation classifies as a clear example of industrial battery usage.
Euralarm also refers to similar interpretations by European waste and environmental bodies, which consider batteries in professional alarm systems as industrial.
Ensuring battery type availability
A notable concern focuses on the extensive number of fire and security systems operational throughout Europe. Despite these systems having a lifespan of several decades, their backup batteries typically require replacement within a few years.
Euralarm highlights that the continuous availability of these battery types is crucial for maintaining certified performance, reliability, and safety. Any supply disruptions could significantly impact millions of installations in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Standby power sources in safety systems
Further, Euralarm asserts that batteries used in fire, life safety, and security panels as standby power sources classify as industrial use, thereby exempting them from specific substance restrictions placed on portable batteries.
The association notes that professional management already ensures suitable end-of-life treatment and calls on regulators to maintain market availability to ensure critical safety systems function as intended. The complete position paper is available for download from the Euralarm website.
