Legislation update

01 April, 2016

WEEE and RoHS

A scope review has been carried out to identify parameters for large and small Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) and there is an assessment of common methodology for the calculation of the weight and quantity of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) across member states.

Other areas under review are the shipment of WEEE, illegal trade activities and the procedures and format for the registration and reporting of EEE producers. As far as the UK is concerned new rules have been introduced for producers selling less than 5 tons of EEE.

Standards under review

Various standards are also being reviewed – notably ISO 8573, which covers test methods for oil aerosol content, now nearing publication. This will include the addition of a second test methodology using a flame ionisation detector, primarily to counter the banning of certain chemicals used during the infrared spectroscopy method.

Work has also begun to review ISO 8573-4 covering test methods for mass concentration of solid particle content. This is to align it with ISO 8573-1 and to establish an accurate test for distinguishing between solid and liquid particles.

In other areas, EN ISO 11011 (Assessment and auditing of compressed air systems) is rapidly becoming established as the industry ‘standard’. Many of our members are incorporating the methodologies therein to provide a standard industry framework for delivering assessment and auditing services.

Legislation and standards are always being reviewed and changed and it is vital for manufacturers, distributors and end users of compressed air to stay informed and even help shape them. Understandably, this can prove to be onerous, which is why being a BCAS member and having access to updated information and technical advice could make a real difference to your business.

Find out more at www.bcas.org.uk