A brief guide to the waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) regulations.

For equipment bought new after 13 August 2005

If you want to dispose of waste electrical or electronic equipment (WEEE) that your business bought brand new after 13 August 2005 you should be able to return it to the manufacturer free of charge. Check the product for a crossed out wheelie bin symbol:

This signifies that it was produced after 13 August 2005 and disposal is the responsibility for disposing of it correctly lies with the original producer or manufacturer.

When buying new electrical or electronic equipment make sure that you record the producer registration number. You should quote this when you contact them to dispose of the equipment once you no longer need it.

If you acquired the equipment under a rental or lease agreement you can return it to the supplier free of charge.

Most manufacturers fulfill their obligations through compliance take-back schemes. Your supplier should be able to provide you with the relevant contact information.

If the producer of your electronic equipment refuses to take responsibility for your waste, you should contact your environmental regulator.

For equipment bought before 13 August 2005

For older equipment without the crossed out wheelie bin symbol, if you are replacing it with new equipment like for like, the provider of the replacement product has a duty to accept the old product if you ask them. They will then be responsible for arranging its proper disposal.