How to Properly Dispose of Old IT Equipment (E-Waste Management)
The Environmental and Security Imperative
Improper disposal of IT equipment (e-waste) poses a dual threat: environmental pollution from heavy metals and the risk of data theft from storage devices left unsecured. Kenya’s National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) regulations encourage responsible disposal.
Secure E-Waste Procedures
- **Data Sanitization (Must Do):** Before disposal or donation, all hard drives (HDDs/SSDs) must be securely wiped. Simply deleting files is not enough. Use specialized software for data overwriting, or, for maximum security, physically shred the hard drive.
- **Inventory and Audit:** Keep a record (serial numbers) of all decommissioned assets. Document the method and date of data destruction for audit purposes.
- **Use Certified E-Waste Recyclers:** Partner with registered local companies that specialize in e-waste processing and adhere to NEMA standards. They ensure hazardous components (batteries, lead) are handled safely and responsibly.
- **Refurbishing/Donation:** If the equipment is still functional, consider securely wiping it and donating it to a non-profit organization, extending its lifespan and reducing waste.
Data security is your primary concern; assume any device not physically destroyed will eventually expose its data.