Mitigating Environmental and Occupational Health Concerns for the Electronic Demanufacturing Industry

There are numerous aspects of the electronics demanufacturing industry that may be scrutinized by Occupational Safety and Health regulators. In older computer equipment, there may be materials that have since been banned from use in industry, such as PCBs. Workers disassembling electronic equipment need to be able to recognize components containing this hazardous material. Disassemblers are also exposed to lifting and cutting hazards in their activities. Those who shred or grind their electronics may be exposed to particulated heavy metals or silica, as well as dangerous levels of noise. When electronic components are removed from circuit boards, melting the solder will release lead fumes that must be properly ventilated. Recent and pending changes in OSHA requirements will affect electronics demanufacturers. Forklift standards were revised March 1, 1999, silica exposure limits may soon be reduced, and an ergonomics standard is pending. Universal and waste must be properly handled and stored in ways that comply with regulations and protect the safety and health of the workers. As a new but growing industry, electronics demanufacturers and recylers must remain aware of potential errors that could cost tens of thousands of dollars in OSHA fines or workers’ compensation claims.