Disposing of electrical and IT equipment is now becoming a more common procedure with the office workspace. Our business, and means of conducting it, is becoming heavily weighted in technology, requiring us to update our software or hardware every so many years. This often means replacing old computers or hardware with completely new units, unfortunately leaving an office to get rid of the old units. This must be done responsibly and properly under the recent government law, the WEEE.

What is the WEEE Directive?

The Waste Electrical and Electric Equipment Directive was implemented into law in January 2007 as a result of Regulations place in 2006. It was put in place to encourage the recycling and reuse of computer and electronic equipment. It lays out the conditions under which electronics and IT equipment must be handled in a secure manner. It also carries some serious consequences for businesses that decide to not uphold the law:

– Civil action based on neglect of sensitive data

– A minimum £5,000 fine per prosecution, without a maximum.

– Consideration of a forced closure of the business.

When it comes to compliance with the WEEE, it’s definitely within the best interests of your business to act within the law.

How does it impact my business?

It will effect your business in a number of ways. First of all, from an ethical point of view, businesses today are striving to be seen as eco-friendly or green. The modern consumer, far more aware than ever before of the impact that their business associations have on the world around them, are more keen to be associated with businesses that label themselves as fair-trade, organic or environmentally aware. By dealing with waste properly, you can boost the positive image of your business. As well as this, a company has a moral and legal duty to deal responsibly with sensitive data and information it holds on it’s customers and clients. Your clientele will need to know and trust that you will deal well with their information.

From a legal perspective, you’ll need to put into place the correct procedures and see to it that your business can account for the recycling or disposal of electronic waste properly. Make sure that you implement these things in a way that does not leave you vulnerable to legal action. The WEEE is a legal requirement with ethical intent. Be accountable and be sure that you deal with data and electronics in a transparent manner.

Who can help me with recycling my electronic waste?

As someone who works at Clearance team, dealing regularly with office and house clearance in London, our business helps other companies dispose of electrical and IT equipment. There are many companies like us across the country, in all cities. Our recommendation is that you hire these experts and specialists. There are many ‘white van’ operations that may run cheaply but should not be trusted to follow through responsibly. Be sure that whoever you hire are, like us, certified and act within the WEEE regulations and are legally compliant.

If you require this service and your business is based within the London or Greater London area, feel free to contact us here at Clearance Team. We’ll be happy to answer any further questions you may have regarding WEEE regulations or how we can be of help.

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