While the Act defines button cell batteries as any battery less than 32 mm in diameter, a size which includes most lithium batteries used in common electronics, it also empowers the CPSC to regulate "any other battery, regardless of the technology used to produce an electrical charge."
For distributors and suppliers, the Act raises two concerns: increased costs as a result of new battery housing, and smaller embellishment areas due to required labeling. "Items may need to be redesigned to make the battery compartment harder to open," explained Whitney. "Redesigning an item may require new tooling. Factories will likely pass those costs up the supply chain to suppliers who would factor that into the product reviews price increases to distributors."
- Companies:
- Leed's
Kyle A. Richardson is the editorial director of Promo Marketing. He joined the company in 2006 brings more than a decade of publishing, marketing and media experience to the magazine. If you see him, buy him a drink.