220-1102 Question 722
Single answerProper battery disposalA technician replaces a swollen lithium-ion battery in a user's laptop. The company does not permit storing hazardous waste at individual desks, and the technician needs to handle the removed battery safely until it can be turned over for disposal. Which action should the technician take next?
- A
Place the battery in a designated battery recycling or hazardous waste collection container and follow the organization's disposal process
- B
Throw the battery in the regular trash because it has already been removed from the laptop
- C
Puncture and drain the battery so it cannot swell further before disposal
- D
Store the battery loosely in a desk drawer until the next scheduled office cleanup
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Proper battery disposal on A+ Core 2 focuses on safe handling and environmentally responsible disposal of hazardous materials. In a real-world support setting, technicians should follow organizational policy and use approved battery recycling or hazardous waste procedures rather than normal trash disposal. Damaged or swollen lithium-ion batteries require extra caution because they present an elevated fire risk. Best practices commonly reflected in manufacturer service documentation, OSHA-aligned workplace safety practices, and local e-waste regulations include isolating the battery, avoiding puncture or crushing, and transferring it to an approved collection point for recycling or hazardous waste processing.
- A. Correct.
Correct. A removed lithium-ion battery, especially a swollen one, should be handled as potentially hazardous e-waste and placed in an approved battery recycling or hazardous waste collection container according to company policy. This aligns with common workplace safety practices and manufacturer guidance to avoid fire, chemical, and environmental hazards.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, should not be discarded in normal trash because they can cause fires in waste streams and may violate local, state, or organizational disposal rules. This option reflects a common misconception that removal from the device makes the battery safe for ordinary disposal.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Puncturing, crushing, or draining a lithium-ion battery is dangerous and can trigger thermal runaway, fire, or release of hazardous chemicals. A technician should never try to physically alter a damaged battery as part of disposal preparation.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Storing a swollen battery loosely in a desk drawer is unsafe because damaged lithium-ion batteries can overheat, leak, or ignite. This also fails to follow the stated company policy against keeping hazardous waste at desks.