Content certification scheme

The WEEELABEX accredited certification scheme describes the working method for the treatment and processing of discarded electrical and electronic equipment in compliance with European Directive 2002/96/EC and several relevant CENELEC standards. The obligation for selective treatment and depollution is described in detail in the WEEELABEX certification scheme and provides good starting points for enforcement of said European legislation.

For whom?

The certification scheme is for organizations processing waste electrical and electronic equipment. Examples of electronic equipment are: washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, ovens, CRT televisions, CRT monitors, LCD screens, gas discharge lamps, microwave ovens, mobile telephones, tablets, deep fryers, drills, vacuum cleaners, small household appliances etc.

There are currently 3 types of processors that can be certified via WEELABEX:

  • type I = manual processing and depollution;
  • type II = mechanical processing and depollution;
  • type III = advanced and specialized mechanical processing and depollution.

The assessment criteria for this certification scheme can be found on the website of the WEELABEX organization.

When is it necessary?

Compulsory in the Netherlands from 1 July 2015 under environmental law and regulations. Certification is also an obligation in Belgium, but the organization is free to choose between WEELABEX and ISO 17020.

Process steps

  • Complete the WEEELABEX Declaration of Intent (Declaration of Intent, submitted online to WEEELABEX Office in Prague via weeelabex.org) and select the Lead Auditor;
  • Request a quote from Kiwa. When requesting a quote, you are asked to specify several details about your organization. Kindly use the application form for this;
  • Initial assessment, during which Kiwa determines whether you meet the requirements of WEEELABEX. Initial assessment consists of a general audit and a batch test, which consists of monitoring the processing of a precisely determined amount of e-waste and the extent to which the separation and depollution process is achieved according to the relevant standards. After positive assessment you will receive the WEEELABEX certificate;
  • After the WEEELABEX certificate has been issued, the certification body will assess whether the certificate holder meets the WEEELABEX requirements periodically through annual surveillance audits.

Why?

In an international context, the recycling of discarded electronic devices and energy-efficient lamps is being taken to a higher quality level. To do this, the e-waste recycling companies must certify themselves in accordance with the so-called WEEELABEX quality standard. The WEEELABEX certification scheme sets requirements for the entire process, with the aim of recovering as many raw materials as possible while managing the environmental impact. Certified companies are required to register all e-waste they process on a national level, accounting for the amount of processed volume to the government. This is necessary to be able to achieve the higher European collection targets for e-waste that have applied from 2016 onwards. It also assures recycling companies that competitors must meet at least the same requirements as they do.