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220-1102 Practice Question: A technician is tasked with disposing of several…
A technician is tasked with disposing of several old UPS batteries from a server room. What is the most environmentally responsible method?
⚠ Common exam trap
CompTIA often tests the misconception that 'recycling' is optional or that 'storing indefinitely' is a safe alternative, when in fact proper disposal through certified recycling centers is legally required for hazardous waste like UPS batteries.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Take them to a local battery recycling center.
UPS batteries contain hazardous materials such as lead and sulfuric acid, which must be handled through specialized recycling processes to prevent environmental contamination. Local battery recycling centers are equipped to safely extract and reuse these materials, complying with regulations like the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) in the U.S.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Place them in the regular dumpster for pickup.
Why it's wrong here
Disposing of lead-acid batteries in regular trash is strictly prohibited by environmental regulations, such as those enforced by the EPA. These batteries contain hazardous materials, including lead and corrosive sulfuric acid, which can leach into soil and groundwater, causing severe environmental contamination and posing significant health risks. Improper disposal can lead to substantial fines for individuals and organizations.
- ✓
Take them to a local battery recycling center.
Why this is correct
Taking lead-acid batteries to a certified recycling center is the correct and environmentally responsible disposal method. These specialized facilities are equipped to safely neutralize the sulfuric acid and extract the lead, plastic, and other components for reuse in new batteries or other products. This process significantly reduces the demand for virgin materials, conserves natural resources, and prevents hazardous waste from entering landfills or polluting ecosystems.
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Burn them in an incinerator to recover energy.
Why it's wrong here
Incinerating lead-acid batteries is an extremely dangerous and environmentally destructive practice. The high temperatures release highly toxic lead fumes, a potent neurotoxin, and sulfur dioxide gas, which contributes to acid rain and respiratory illnesses. This process would severely contaminate the air, posing immediate health hazards to nearby populations and long-term ecological damage, making it an illegal and irresponsible disposal method.
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Store them indefinitely in a sealed container.
Why it's wrong here
Indefinitely storing old lead-acid batteries, even in a sealed container, is an inadequate and potentially hazardous solution. Over time, the battery casings can degrade, leading to leaks of corrosive sulfuric acid, which can damage property and pose chemical burn risks. Furthermore, this method fails to comply with environmental regulations that mandate proper, active recycling or disposal of hazardous waste within specified timeframes, rather than passive, long-term accumulation.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This 220-1202 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 220-1202 exam.