Since the introduction of the WEEE Directive in 2007, hundreds of IT Disposal companies have been established . Unfortunately, many of these companies do not provide a legal, ethical, compliant service which could leave you liable.
The legislation governing IT disposal , the WEEE Directive, is very complex and hence to help you select a reputable disposal company we recommend you ask the following questions:
1. Does the IT disposal company have a Waste Carrier license?
This is a legal requirement. Ask any prospective disposal company for their Waste Carrier Licence Number.
r3’s waste carrier’s licence number: CBDU175668
2. Do the IT disposal company have a Waste Management License?
Whilst not currently a legal requirement, a Waste Management License ensures that your redundant IT is disposed of in compliance of the WEEE Directive and following best practices to protect the environment. We therefore recommend that you select a disposal company with a Waste Management License for the added peace of mind it provides.
r3’s waste management licence number: EA WML/100078.
3. Can the IT disposal company provide sample WEEE documentation?
Your disposal company must provide you with both a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note and a Duty of Care Transfer Note on the day of collection. These forms have to be signed by representatives of both the customer and the disposal company. Ask any prospective disposal company to forward you samples of the forms they provide. If they cannot or will not supply these forms we strongly suggest you look at an alternative company.
4. Can the IT disposal company provide a sample asset report?
Although not a legal requirement a reputable disposal company should be able to provide you with an asset report providing you with a detailed breakdown of equipment collected. The environment agency is empowered to audit companies to ensure that they are disposing of their redundant IT in compliance with the WEEE directive. This report, along with the WEEE documentation above, provides proof of compliance.Examples of r3′s documentation & certification can be found on the downloads page in this section of our web site.
5. Can the IT disposal company provide a sample data destruction certificate?
In order to adhere to the data protection act and ensure sensitive and/or privileged information contained within your redundant IT does not reach the public domain, a reputable IT Disposal company should be able to provide data destruction certificates to validate the complete removal of data. Ask your prospective disposal company for a sample certificate and check that the software they use is CESG approved.
Examples of r3′s documentation & certification can be found on the downloads page in this section of our web site.
Please note that the questions and answers above are only offered as a brief guide to help you when selecting an IT disposal company. Should you have any concerns or further questions regarding this matter we are always on hand to help. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via the contact section of this site if you have more questions or need further advice.