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EN 50625 (WEEELABEX)
In brief
EN 50625 is a European series of standards with requirements for the collection, logistics and treatment of waste electrical and electronic equipment. Among other things, it specifies how pollutants are removed, processes documented and treatment results demonstrated. It emerged from the WEEELABEX standards developed by European take-back systems.
Structure of the standards series
| Part | Contents |
|---|---|
| EN 50625-1 | General requirements for treatment: organization, personnel, removal of pollutants, documentation |
| EN 50625-2-x | Specific requirements for certain device types, such as lamps, screens or cooling appliances |
| Part 3 (technical specifications) | Supplementary rules, for example on testing the removal of pollutants |
| EN 50625-4 | Collection and logistics |
Meaning for IT disposal
The standard specifies what the WEEE Directive means by "proper treatment". Some EU states have made it binding; in others it serves as a benchmark for tenders and audits. For companies it is a reference point for recognizing careful Initial treatment , in particular in the Depollution. The standard regulates environmental aspects, not data erasure. Second IT disposes as a certified waste management company under § 56 KrWG and erases data beforehand with certification. More on this in the guide Certified waste management company and IT disposal.
Frequently asked questions about EN 50625
Is EN 50625 mandatory in Germany?
In Germany, the treatment obligations result from the ElektroG and its annexes. The standard specifies good practice and is often required in contracts or tenders.
What is WEEELABEX?
WEEELABEX was a set of standards developed by European take-back systems for the treatment of waste electrical equipment. Its contents were incorporated into the EN 50625 series of standards.
Does EN 50625 also regulate data erasure?
No. The standard concerns collection, logistics and environmentally sound treatment. The erasure or destruction of data carriers must be ensured and evidenced separately.
How can I tell whether a disposal company works to EN 50625?
Ask for a current certificate from an independent certification body. Pay attention to the scope: the certificate should cover the device types and the site where your old devices are treated. If in doubt, have the document explained to you.
What does EN 50625 regulate regarding the removal of pollutants?
The standard specifies how pollutants are removed from old devices, processes documented and results demonstrated. Supplementary technical specifications regulate, for example, the testing of whether the removal of pollutants has succeeded.
Erase data first, then recover properly.
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