Panasonic Corp. is continuing its efforts in warning both OEM manufacturers and the public about the dangers of battery ingestion. This is part of a national ongoing campaign amongst battery industry manufacturers, regulators, pediatricians and the National Capitol Poison Center, among others. The campaign is a critical step in protecting the public, as approximately 2,314 individuals battery ingestions were reported between July 2014-June 2016. Of those reported cases, 33 were reported to have major or fatal effects.
Battery ingestion typically occurs in individuals younger than six years and individuals over 60 years old, mainly in the United States. The majority of ingestions occur as a result of loose or discarded batteries, batteries removed from packaging, or batteries mistaken for medication. The majority of batteries ingested are button cells (3 V Lithium Coin cells).
Household items that can pose a danger and are most commonly reported to be issues with loose batteries include games and toys, watches, flameless candles, scales, remote controls, keyfobs, lights and hearing aids.
Because the frequency of deaths haven’t diminished, the campaign urges the public to keep any 3 Volt Lithium Coin batteries out of the reach of children. The industry should also take further measures to make battery holders and compartments more secure.
