WEEE reuse standard welcomed

A new UK specification aimed at encouraging the reuse of waste electronic goods has been praised by data destruction experts.

PAS 141, which was published by BSI on 31 March, details requirements to ensure waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is fit for reuse and includes a framework to assure the quality and safety of goods.

The specification also covers the removal of personal data from machines following a number of cases where WEEE from the UK was illegally sold overseas still containing the previous owners’ information.

Anthony Pearlgood, commercial director of confidential data destruction business PHS Maxitech believes PAS 141 is a positive move for the industry.

“This specification is a step in the right direction and shows the government’s commitment to the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive. We welcome the move and encourage everyone in the industry to follow the guidelines,” he said.

“The next step is making PAS 141 compulsory for all businesses involved in the reuse industry and introducing penalties for those that don’t follow the standard.”