Key Steps in the Certification Process

Getting R2 Certified is a process that takes most facilities 8 to 12 months to complete. While some companies successfully prepare for certification on their own, the vast majority find it beneficial to enlist the help of a consultant.

The following are the steps in the certification process. Either download a readable PDF version or continue reading below.

Understanding the requirements in the R2 Standard

  • A variety of free, online training resources are available for on-demand viewing in the Knowledge Base. Also, download and review the R2 Standard, R2 Equipment Categorization (REC) document, and the Code of Practices.
  • Keep informed of all the latest updates, training notices and other important information about the R2 Certification Program by signing up for the R2 Update newsletter and following us on LinkedIn. These are the primary methods SERI uses to communicate important changes to the R2 Certification Program.

Certification requires documenting the processes and procedures taking place at your facility, and incorporating R2 requirements into your process.

  • Most companies enlist the help of a consultant to help them implement R2 requirements and prepare for the audit, although some companies prepare successfully on their own. SERI does not endorse specific consultants, but we do publish a list of consultants who have taken SERI’s R2 Auditor Training course and have passed the final exam. We strongly recommend checking references before choosing a consultant.
  • The R2 Standard requires certification to an approved Environmental, Health and Safety Management System as the foundation for best practices. The R2 Standard builds on that foundation with requirements specific to the electronics reuse-recycling industry. In addition, facilities engaged in test and repair and/or brokering activities must also certify to an approved Quality Management System through an accredited certification body.

This will be examined by an auditor as part of the audit process. Examples of evidence include things such as testing and data destruction records; records that track the flow of equipment and materials through your facility; monitoring records, proof of legality for trans-boundary shipments; and other records or evidence that demonstrate your conformance to each R2 requirement.

Facilities that choose to register their downstream chain as a means of satisfying Appendix A requirements, can access the instructions and Downstream Registration Form through this link: Register your downstream

After implementing R2 requirements and collecting the necessary records to demonstrate conformance to the requirements in R2 and other the required Standards, conduct an “internal audit” to assess readiness and determine whether any changes or corrective action steps are needed. Internal audits must be conducted each year by someone qualified in the area(s) they are assessing.

Many companies enlist the help of a consultant to perform internal audits in these key areas:

  • R2 audit
  • Environmental Management System audit
  • Health & Safety Management System audit
  • Legal compliance audit
  • Downstream vendor audits
  • Internal data security & sanitization audit
  • Quality Management System audit – Appendix C and F

Facilities must pass an audit by one of the SERI-approved Certification Bodies to demonstrate conformance to the R2 Standard. For first-time certifications, a 2-stage audit is required.

The Stage 1 audit focuses primarily on review of documented processes and procedures. The Stage 2 audit typically occurs 30-60 days after the Stage 1 audit and focuses more on assessing the facility, observing activities taking place, and reviewing records and evidence. Any areas of “non-conformance” are flagged, and facilities must correct those areas in order to achieve R2 Certification.

  • Schedule an audit with one of the SERI-approved, Certification Bodies. When scheduling, keep in mind that many certification bodies book out months in advance.
  • Get a SERI License for R2 Certification:
    • Complete the online License Application prior to the Stage 1 audit.
    • Because the license fee is non-refundable, please do NOT pay the license fee until just prior to the Stage 2 audit.
  • After the Certification Body issues the R2 Certificate, the facility will be listed on the SERI website directory of R2 Certified Facilities.

To maintain R2 Certification, facilities must pass an annual audit to demonstrate ongoing conformance to the R2 Standard, and pay the annual R2 License Fee.

Accepted Standards List

The following external standards are approved reference documents that may be used, where applicable, and in conjunction with the R2 Standard, to address specific R2 requirements.

Document EMS HSMS QMS
RIOS:2016 – Recycling Industry Operating Standard ⬤ ⬤ ⬤
ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management Systems ⬤
ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems ⬤
EN ISO 45001:2023 – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems ⬤
AS/NZS 4801:2001 – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems ⬤
ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management System ⬤
TL 9000 Quality Management System for the Telecommunications Industry   ⬤
ISO 13485:2016 Medical Devices – Quality Management Systems ⬤

* Scope of certification must include all R2 related electronic equipment, components and materials managed, and cover all R2 Certified activities and operations.

** Certificate must be issued by a CB that is accredited by an AB that is an IAF MLA signatory.