The UAE will start a phased and gradual control of hazardous materials in electrical and electronic devices w.e.f. the beginning of 2018 owing to their detrimental effect on public health, according to Dr. Rashid bin Ahmed bin Fahad, Minister of State.
Dr. Fahad, who is also the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology, ESMA, has stated that the UAE Cabinet has issued a decision on the mandatory control of hazardous materials in electrical and electronic devices whereby providers of such appliances in the country shall abide by new criteria that reduce the risk and increase the safety of chemicals used.
He noted that the decision referred by ESMA to the cabinet recently includes controlling the percentage of hazardous material that pose a threat to both consumers' public health and the environment, explaining that the decision has been benchmarked against latest international practices and standards.
The decision should go into force coincidentally with the European Union's application early next year, he said, adding that it will be conducive to enabling a culture of ecofriendly innovations that ensure hazardous waste management.

Source: WAM