Q.   Is an R2 Facility required to use the exact categories as specified in the R2 Equipment Categorization (REC), or can other categories be used?

The exact categories as defined in the REC do not need to be used as long as the R2 Facility maintains a written correlation noting any other categories used to the applicable REC categories, as required under Core 6.(a)(2).  For instance, if an R2 Facility already has its own categorization or grading system, they may continue to use it, but they would need to document how the existing categories align with those in the REC.

Also note that in most cases, not all REC categories would apply or be used by each R2 Facility.  As a result, each facility must identify and use only those categories that are applicable to its specific operations.

In addition, Core 6.(e)(2)(A) provides further flexibility on use of the cosmetic categories, by allowing the R2 Facility to provide a detailed description of the cosmetic conditions of the equipment, in place of the REC cosmetic category.  In this case, the cosmetic description should at minimum characterize the physical appearance of the equipment as well as detail any damage and missing parts.

Overall, there is flexibility built into the categorization process and the categories used, as long as the R2 Facility can still demonstrate conformance with the R2 requirements.

Q.   Two tables are included as appendices to the REC:  Appendix A-Enhanced Cosmetic Category Info and Appendix B-Linkage with Functioning and Cosmetic Categories.  Are facilities required to use these tables?

No, these tables are simply examples of how a facility might use the REC categories when establishing their own categorization procedures.  Use of the example tables in Appendix A and B is not mandatory.