Planned Returns defined in the REC

Q:   The R2 Equipment Categorization (REC) defines Planned Return items as Unrestricted Streams. Does this mean that incoming shipments can be sorted and all the nonconforming product returned to the supplier without managing the downstream chain?

A:   No.  Planned Return is intended to be used for occasional and limited exceptions to standard operating processes but not as a regular ongoing practice for handling FM containing equipment or components.

As an example, if an R2 Facility purchases a component for use in the repair of a device, and finds that the component is defective, it can be returned to the manufacturer under warranty and the usual requirements for downstream due diligence for that FM containing device would not apply.

Similarly, if the R2 Facility has an item that is recalled by the manufacturer, or is damaged during shipment from the supplier, those items can also be returned, and the downstream due diligence requirements do not apply.

In all cases of planned returns, as per Core Requirement 6.(e)(1), the R2 Facility must be able to demonstrate the justification for why the item was deemed to be Planned Return and maintain adequate records to track all transfers of the equipment.

While planned returns can be used to manage items in limited, infrequent cases, when the activity becomes a standard operating practice, an alternate process, or verified downstream due diligence is required.