Every company has to comply with environmental, health and safety regulations.  The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets the rules that every company must follow, even if you are in a seemingly “safe” office environment.

For electronic recyclers, worker health and safety can be a challenge.  We work with hazardous materials, we move around a lot of heavy equipment, there are lots of sharp parts and pieces when equipment is de-manufactured or hard drives are destroyed.

Just as you should validate that your ITAD partner is doing the right thing by making sure the materials are disposed of in compliance with environmental regulations, you should also make sure they are doing the right things for the safety of their workers at their facilities.

Why should you care?

1. You want partners that have the same standards that you do for your employee health and safety.  Some companies put that in their contracts, but even if you don’t, you should require your computer recycling partner to demonstrate that they have a safe workplace.  After all, you are “hiring” their workers to do work for your company.
2. If your e-waste recycler is in the news for OSHA, local or state worker safety violations, this negative press could easily include your company.  Your employees and your community expect you to do the right thing not just for the environment but also for people.  Remember, sustainability includes people, not just planet.
3. A strong health and safety program and record is one of several indicators that the electronics recycler you’ve chosen does the right thing, all the time.  If they maintain a safe workplace, it’s very likely they also meet all environmental requirements.
4. If they will share their health and safety rules and documentation with you, this is a sign of transparency and that they are not cutting any corners.  You want a vendor who is open and honest with you.
5. A safe and healthy workplace boosts worker morale and improves communication among workers and management, improving productivity and quality.  It allows the vendor to attract the best workers.  This directly impacts the service level you will receive from your vendor.

To learn about other factors to consider when selecting an ITAD vendor, download our Guide to Minimizing the Risk of IT Asset Disposition or check out our recent OSHA SHARP Award Recognition.