The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates the workplace health and safety standards that all organizations must comply with. There are several reasons you should pay attention to your ITAD vendor’s health and safety measures.

The dangers of working in an ITAD facility are real. Computer equipment and electronics parts can cause injury during the destruction process, and sometimes contain toxic materials. When operations run smoothly and safely, it is not by chance. ITAD facilities must set and adhere to environmental, health and safety programs. Addressing potential hazards allows facilities to reduce possible injury and illness.

The social impact is significant. When employee safety is a priority, morale and productivity increase. You want the best workers meeting your company’s ITAD needs, ensuring the work is done properly and efficiently. When your ITAD vendor is compliant with industry certification requirements and OSHA standards, your company can rest assured that the vendor is doing its due diligence in these areas.

Environmental impact is also a key factor for your reputation and that of your ITAD vendor. Sustainability best practices are as important as employee health and safety. Properly disposing of e-waste affects our environment, as well as ITAD workers and the community. By teaming with a reputable ITAD vendor, your company will reduce its equipment’s impact on the environment.

Your reputation is at stake! When a vendor rates poorly in the areas of employee health and safety, its public image and reputation is often transferred to their customers. You don’t want your company’s name ultimately associated with this sort of bad press.

Always ask your ITAD vendor to provide its environmental, health and safety records. ITAD companies that are compliant and following best practices will be happy to produce these materials for you in order to demonstrate the work that has been done to maintain a good standing in health and safety. Attaining awards like the OSHA SHARP award, and holding industry certifications like e-Stewards, are indications of respectable ITAD practices.

Please see our recent OSHA SHARP award and download our Guide to Minimizing the Risk of IT Asset Disposition to help guide your needs when selecting an ITAD vendor.