Rayovac Transitions Watch Batteries to Mercury Free Formula

 

MADISON, Wisconsin, July 11, 2011 – With its batteries backed by decades of industry-standard performance tests which demonstrate the brand's proven performance and reliable power, Rayovac® began shipping mercury free versions of its two Silver Oxide Watch Batteries last month.

Mercury Free Legislation

Mercury was eliminated from larger batteries in the 1990s in response to legislation passed in 1996. This included Alkaline and Heavy Duty AA, AAA, C, D and 9V batteries. While household batteries containing mercury were eliminated, button-cell batteries, such as those for hearing aids and watches, were exempt at that time because the technology to create a robust mercury free design in these cells was not available.

Since then, a number of battery manufacturers, including Rayovac, have invested heavily in the R&D and manufacturing capability necessary to create formulations and designs that now can eliminate the use of added mercury in zinc air hearing aid batteries and silver oxide watch batteries. It is widely agreed today that mercury, in sufficient quantities, can be highly toxic and potentially harmful to people and to the environment. Many states now have extensive legislation banning or regulating the use of mercury in a wide variety of products.

Currently, several US states have enacted legislation, effective as early as June 30, 2011, that bans the sale, offer to sell, or distribution for promotional purposes of certain mercury containing button cell batteries, including zinc air hearing aid batteries and silver oxide watch batteries.

 

Rayovac has two silver oxide watch batteries affected by this legislation: 303/357 and 376/377. The mercury free versions began shipping in June 2011. With the introduction of the new formula, Rayovac silver oxide watch batteries will continue to provide high performance at a great price, while keeping specialty devices going strong. Rayovac silver oxide watch batteries are engineered for use in devices such as watches, calculators, remote controls and medical devices. In addition to the improved formula, Rayovac’s MercuryFree Silver Oxide Watch Batteries wear new packaging.  Look for the green logo with the leaf, this indicates the Rayovac battery contains a mercury free formula and is more environmentally friendly.

 

Please note that other Rayovac button cells are Lithium (such as KECR2032-1), have never contained mercury and therefore are not affected by this legislation.

Rayovac is a worldwide leader in battery power and innovation.  Backed by a long history of bringing the latest innovations to the marketplace, Rayovac offers a full range of high-performance batteries to meet the power needs of today’s consumers.  From long-lasting alkaline batteries to advanced green rechargeable technology to the world’s top-selling, longest lasting mercury free hearing aid battery, Rayovac’s state-of-the-art products offer more power for the money.  The company also manufactures a wide selection of high-quality flashlights.  For more information visit www.rayovac.com.

About Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.
Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc., a member of the Russell 2000 Index, is a diversified, global consumer products company and a leading supplier of batteries, shaving and grooming products, personal care products, small household appliances, specialty pet supplies, lawn & garden and home pest control products, personal insect repellents and portable lighting. Helping to meet the needs of consumers worldwide, the Company offers a broad portfolio of market-leading and widely trusted brands including Rayovac®, Remington®, Varta®, George Foreman®, Black & Decker®, Toastmaster®, Tetra®, Marineland®, Nature’s Miracle®, Dingo®, 8-in-1®, Littermaid®, Spectracide®, Cutter®, Repel®, and Hot Shot®. Spectrum Brands Holdings' products are sold by the world's top 25 retailers and are available in more than one million stores in more than 120 countries around the world. Spectrum Brands Holdings generated net sales of $3.1 billion from continuing operations in fiscal 2010. For more information, visit www.spectrumbrands.com.