Safety resources

Safely or Not at All: Fire Safety and Prevention Resources for Recycling Operations

This page brings together ReMA’s tools and resources related to fire safety, management, and prevention at recycling operations to help protect employees, communities, and operations.

Introduction

Welcome to ReMA’s Fire Safety & Prevention Hub.

Fire prevention is a shared responsibility across the recycled materials industry. As batteries and other energy-containing devices become increasingly common in the recycling stream, facilities must remain vigilant and continuously adapt their safety practices.

Resources for Recyclers

Hazard Recognition in Recycling
Training videos, modules, and presentations focused on identifying fire hazards and implementing prevention strategies in real-world operations.
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Guidance on Addressing Fire Risks at Recycling Operations
A framework for developing a plan built around prevention, detection, mitigation, and education.
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Creating a Fire Prevention and Management Plan
A practical guide including OSHA- and industry-specific fire prevention and management resources.
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Guide for Establishing Lithium-ion Battery Management Practices at Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs):
Developed in collaboration with the National Waste and Recycling Association (NWRA) and Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), this guide helps MRF operators develop effective management practices.
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Fire Safety Guide for Tire Processors
Guidance for tire processors regarding fire safety management and prevention.
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High Voltage Electric Vehicle Technology Training for Recycling Professionals:
Designed for recycling and dismantling professionals, this training provides the critical knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to interact safely with EVs and lithium-ion batteries.
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In-Person Training Class
ReMA offers a four-hour, in-person training classes covering fire safety, hazard recognition, and battery management practices.
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Draft Fire Messaging Guidance for Recycling Operations
Communications resources for ReMA members.
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Partnerships and Public Education

Consumer education plays a critical role in reducing fire risks throughout the recycling value chain. ReMA works with a variety of organizations to promote responsible battery use, handling, and recycling.

Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI)
ReMA and ESFI partner on consumer education resources around lithium-ion battery recycling including a variety of posters outlining dos and don’ts.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
ReMA’s MRF guidance is included as an EPA resource for battery management.
State of South Carolina
ReMA partners with the state of South Carolina on the Take Charge: Be Battery Smart Campaign, which promotes responsible battery handling, recycling, and consumer awareness.
JASON Learning
ReMA and JASON Learning have developed curiculum on battery recycling for grades K-4, 5-8, and 9-12. Additionally, we partnered on a 2026 video and poster contest around battery recycling education.

Policies and Positions

ReMA advocates for practical, science-based approaches to battery management and fire prevention throughout the recycling value chain.

Additional Resources

Hazard Recognition in Recycling
Training videos, modules, and presentations focused on identifying fire hazards and implementing prevention strategies in real-world operations.
Hazard Recognition in Recycling
Training videos, modules, and presentations focused on identifying fire hazards and implementing prevention strategies in real-world operations.
Hazard Recognition in Recycling
Training videos, modules, and presentations focused on identifying fire hazards and implementing prevention strategies in real-world operations.
Hazard Recognition in Recycling
Training videos, modules, and presentations focused on identifying fire hazards and implementing prevention strategies in real-world operations.
Hazard Recognition in Recycling
Training videos, modules, and presentations focused on identifying fire hazards and implementing prevention strategies in real-world operations.
Hazard Recognition in Recycling
Training videos, modules, and presentations focused on identifying fire hazards and implementing prevention strategies in real-world operations.