Standard on e-waste protects workers and environment

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Standard on e-waste protects workers and environment

A new Standard just released will provide those who handle e-waste with best practice guidelines to process electrical and electronic waste, Standards New Zealand Chief Executive Debbie Chin said today.

‘The joint Australia-New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 5377:2013 Collection, storage, transport, and treatment of electrical and electronic equipment provides guidance and specifies requirements for the safe and environmentally sound collection, storage, transport, and treatment of e-waste.’

‘This Standard will help protect human health and protect the environment, whether the e-waste is destined for re-use or recycling purposes. It aims to maximise re-use and material recovery, reduce or eliminate the amount of waste from equipment going to final disposal operations such as landfill, safeguard worker health, and minimise harm to the environment.’

Debbie Chin said the list of appliances covered by the draft Standard is comprehensive and ranges from large items like cooling appliances, ovens, washing machines, computers, and freezers through to electric knives, cameras, lamps, sewing machines, and medical devices.

‘In an age where technology is constantly improving, the amount of e-waste is growing. It is important that everyone involved in handling e-waste is following safe and environmentally sound procedures.’

Order AS/NZS 5377:2013 from www.standards.co.nz or call 0800 782 632 during business hours
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