Controlling hazards

Remanufactures and recyclers must control the release of hazardous substances from the WEEE they are handling. They must have an established system and plan to identify and manage hazardous substances removed during remanufacturing.

The remanufacturer must have scanning and testing equipment and/or procedures to work out if there is hazardous substances in the equipment and if so, the type/s of hazardous substance.

There must be adequate control of indoor and outdoor hazardous air emissions (identified through the risk assessment process).

All hazardous wastes must be dealt with according to current legislation and good practice. This includes Basel consents, hazardous waste movements, greenhouse gas regulations, and hazardous substances and new organisms group standards.

Hazardous substances must only be handled by suitably skilled and qualified staff.

Where ‘destructive’ remanufacturing is taking place, operators must make sure their health and safety risk assessment includes risks of worker exposure and environmental releases of lead and other hazardous substances. Destructive remanufacturing includes the application of heat or the use of crushing and grinding equipment.

Appropriate facilities, protective equipment (such as safety goggles, overalls, rubber-soled shoes, face masks, cut-resistant gloves and hearing protection), and staff training should be provided.


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Last updated:15 March 2011