Batteries & Accumulators

When dealing with batteries in toys, manufacturers should be aware of two sets of regulations in the UK.

  • The Batteries and Accumulators (Placing on the Market) Regulations 2015
  • The Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009

The guidance below covers the first piece of regulation which outlines the rules for toy companies regarding the placing on the market of batteries and accumulators, and in particular those containing specified hazardous substances.

BTHA UK Batteries & Accumulators Guidance

Last updated: July 8, 2024

Toy companies operating in the EU will need to comply with the Batteries and Waste Regulation. The new Batteries and Waste Regulation introduces stronger requirements to deal with making batteries more sustainable, easier to use and keeping consumers better informed. The legislation regulates the entire life cycle of a battery, from production to reuse and recycling.

The BTHA has produced two new guidance documents to help with compliance.

EU Guidance Document - Light Means of Transport (LMT) Batteries

Last updated: March 11, 2025

Published 11 March 2025

EU Guidance Document - Portable Batteries

Last updated: August 6, 2025

Published 15 July 2025

This guide is for portable battery types only, typically used in toys.