Why Are These Devices Potentially Harmful?
Electronic equipment contains metals that, if not properly managed or contained, can become hazardous wastes:
- Cadmium - The largest source of cadmium in municipal waste is rechargeable nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries.
- Lead - Old monitors and televisions contain a cathode ray tube (CRT) that contains leaded glass. CRTs are the largest source of lead in municipal waste.
- Mercury - Some electronic equipment also contains recoverable quantities of mercury.
Electronics may also contain other materials such as hexavalent chromium, brominated fire retardants, lithium, and phosphorous coatings that, if improperly disposed, can pose a threat to human health and the environment.
What Devices Are Not Included in the CDRA?
The CDRA definitions of covered device, computer, covered computer device and covered television device contain a number of specific exclusions, including:
- Televisions with viewable screens smaller than four inches
- Telephones of any type, including mobile phones
- An automated typewriter, professional workstation, server, portable handheld calculator, portable digital assistant, global positioning system, MP3 player or other similar device
- Devices that are functionally or physically part of:
- Equipment intended for use in an industrial, governmental, commercial, R&D or medical setting
- Equipment used for security, sensing, monitoring, anti-terrorism or emergency services purposes
- Equipment designed and intended primarily for use by professional users
- A component or part of a motor vehicle
- Devices that are contained in an appliance