The WEEE Regulations are intended to reduce the amount of waste electronic and electrical equipment (EEE) being sent to landfill by reusing and recycling. The regulations put certain requirements on those producing, distributing and using electronic equipment.
Waste Categories
There are 10 categories of EEE listed in annex 1A of the Directive – Schedule 1 of the WEEE Regulations:
1. Large household appliances
2. Small household appliances
3. IT and telecommunications equipment
4. Consumer equipment
5. Lighting equipment
6. Electrical and electronic tools (with the exception of large-scale stationary industrial tools)
7. Toys, leisure and sports equipment
8. Medical devices (with the exception of all implanted and infected products)
9. Monitoring and control instruments
10. Automatic dispensers
The wheelie bin symbol is present on EEE items produced after 15th August 2005.
Responsibilities of Businesses
Businesses should correctly store and dispose of electronic waste, use a waste carrier registered with the Environment Agency and keep appropriate records including waste transfer notes when the waste changes ownership.
Equipment purchased before 13th August 2005:
If equipment is being replaced, the company providing the equipment must take the unwanted item if requested to do so.
If it is not being replaced, the EEE User must ensure the equipment is disposed of in accordance with their duty of care.
Equipment purchased after 13th August 2001:
The producer (original manufacturer) is responsible of treating the waste. Contact the producer or their compliance scheme to arrange collection. The supplier may arrange for the collection, but a charge can be apply.
More information
Environment Agency: http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/bu … 39283.aspx
Other Legislation that may be of interest:
Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS)
Batteries Regulations
Hazardous waste producer regulations (England & Wales)
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