Some Details of the New European Parliament Directive regarding Ni-Cd Batteries

Please note that this is not an exact transcript of any part of the directive, but it is our interpretation of it, to the extent that it may affect:

1. existing Kowalski Torch users
2. those proposing to purchase a Kowalski Torch (either new or second-hand)
3. those requiring replacement batteries for their Kowalski
4. those wishing to dispose of their Kowalski Torch (either by sale, gift or scrapping)

General

The directive came into effect in September 2008.

It affects all New Sales of Equipment powered by Ni-Cd batteries (among others).

It affects the fitting of replacement batteries in existing equipment.

Sales of second-hand equipment are not affected.

Much of the onus of this new law falls upon us as the distributor, but you as the end user should be aware of the requirements to dispose of waste Ni-Cd batteries safely and to seek to recycle them at authorised centres.

Some Questions

1. What happens when my existing Ni-Cd batteries need replacing?

   For the moment we can replace your batteries with Ni-Cd batteries as long as supplies of the batteries are available. The costs of this service are expected to remain unchanged. We are uncertain when supplies of Ni-Cd batteries will cease, but will give you as much warning as possible.

2. Is my existing Kowalski torch now obsolete or am I breaking the law by using Ni-Cd batteries?

   No. You are free to continue using your torch as long as the existing batteries are giving you service. The existing batteries in your torch normally have an overall life of between 5 and 6 years (dependent on usage). When the batteries are no longer giving a full charge they may be replaced. Please refer to Question (1).

3. I have stopped diving and no longer have use for my torch. Can I sell it or give it to a friend?

   Yes, but you should make the recipient aware that it does contain Ni-Cd batteries, that there are possible costs to upgrade it and that disposal of Ni-Cd batteries is strictly controlled.

4. I have heard that Lithium and Water are an explosive mix. If my torch leaks, will it explode?

   • There is only a very small amount of Lithium in these batteries, which reduces the risk to a minimum.
   • In the very rare event that a Kowalski lamp might leak, two separate electronic circuits inside the torch are designed to effect a complete shutdown of the system, thus any such reaction would also be terminated.

If you have a question that is not dealt with above, please contact us by e-mail at info@lighthousediving.co.uk and we will do our best to help.

The full text of the European Parliament Directive is available at:
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/site/en/oj/2006/l_266/l_26620060926en00010014.pdf