Selecting the correct IT disposal company can be a daunting task.
Having been involved in the IT reuse industry for over 20 years we have seen plenty of companies that provide a non compliant service. These companies leave clients liable to Environmental and ICO prosecution. It is important to be aware of the trickery some companies use when offering free services and a great sounding re-marketing scheme.
The WEEE directive and GDPR regulations are perplexing legislation to navigate. When in the process of selecting a trusted ITAD partner, ask the following questions to avoid a non compliant company.
1. Does the IT recycling company operate a registered Environment Agency site?
As a minimum the computer recycling company should be a T11 certified site. An AATF (Approved Authorised Treatment Facility) is desirable.
2. Is the IT disposal company a registered Waste Carrier?
It is a legal requirement for the company transporting your retired IT assets to hold a Waste Carriers Licence.
3. Can the Computer recycling company provide a Duty of Care, waste transfer note and Hazardous Waste Consignment note on collection?
There are unscrupulous companies and individuals that won't provide this essential documentation on collection. Tip; watch out for the line "We will send this to once the waste has been processed". This is not compliant!
4. It is important the IT recycling company uses their own sign written, solid sided vehicles and vetted staff.
It has been reported that one of the largest IT recycling companies subs out collections to 3rd party individuals with a van. This can be particularly risky as the vehicles are not tracked and open to drivers dropping equipment off, before returning to the facility.
5. Whilst not a legal requirement, a portal containing all information of previous collections is very useful.
Always ask for this as it shows a level of commitment for the computer disposal company.
Again not a legal requirement but is an indicator to the ITAD company's professionalism.
Along with onsite and offsite data destruction is essential.
With ICO fines, data breach, bad publicity, identity theft and the booming black market for data, the ITAD partner must demonstrate a robust chain of custody and strong physical control over data bearing devices.
8. Can the computer disposal partner provide detailed asset lists?
Ideally asset lists should be produced by the client, this forms step one of the chain of custody. However we understand that this can be a long, cumbersome task and not all clients have the time or resources to complete a list. Therefore it is important the chosen IT asset disposal company can complete this on the client's behalf.
As with everything in life, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Look out for remarketing schemes that state you will receive a return once the items have been processes and sold. More often the processing costs will outweigh the returns, leaving the clients with a bill.
Established IT Recycling Company should be able to make an upfront offer on your equipment if it genuinely retains an intrinsic value.