University of Cincinnati
OP-20: Electronic Waste Recycling Program

The UC Surplus Management group has had in place since FY08 a detailed program for the handling of e-waste through the use of external vendors. This process begins with a UC department submitting a downloadable, electronic 'SE' (surplus equipment) request form. Once the SE request form is received and reviewed, it is forwarded to UC Moving Services for safe pick-up and delivery to Surplus Management. Upon arrival at Surplus Management, the contents of each request are verified and a determination is made as to the correct handling and routing needed to comply with Information Security, Radiation Safety and Environmental Health & Safety guidelines. Once e-waste items have been separated from other surplus, they are broken down again into smaller groups based on type. For example, all computer monitors that are unusable are secured and packaged in preparation for shipment to the vendor that has been approved for secure, environmentally correct destruction of that type of item (monitors are handled cooperatively with EH&S). The same process is used for all other varieties or e-waste including computers, printers, scanners, copiers, network and telecommunications equipment, etc. This process in continually expanding and now includes the secure handling of smaller items such as batteries and toner cartridges. All information regarding the SE Request process can be found at the included link. Please take note of the section entitled 'Additional Special Handling Required' as it addresses aspects of keeping UC employees who handle and transport equipment safe.

All electronic waste is disposed of centrally by UC Surplus Management. Appropriately certified vendors are used to ensure electronic waste is recycled in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.