Press Release: R2:2013 Certification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sioux Falls Bargain Bytes, Inc. Among First to Achieve Certification to New R2:2013 Standard

Becomes only R2:2013 certified electronics recycler in the Dakotas.

Bargain Bytes, Inc. has become one of the first companies in the country to earn certification to the newly upgraded Responsible Recycling Practices for Electronics Recycling (R2) Standard. Already certified to R2:2008, e-Stewards and ISO 14001, Bargain Bytes has joined the elite group of recyclers that have achieved the new R2:2013 certification.

“This accomplishment sets us apart from others in the industry,” says Jake Anderson, President of Bargain Bytes. “We have invested a lot of time and effort into developing our processes and policies to ensure a high level of excellence in how we handle our customers’ IT assets. The R2:2013 certification serves as recognition for our efforts to uphold stringent operational, environmental, health, safety and security standards.”

Recognized by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as an accredited certification standard, R2:2013 requires strict accountability for environmental, health and safety practices to protect employees and the community. Certification also requires tracking and downstream accountability and prohibits e-waste from being mishandled or illegally exported. Facility security, mandatory employee background checks, and the highest industry standards for data destruction or sanitization of data sensitive devices is also included.

“We are pleased to have Bargain Bytes as an R2 Certified partner and congratulate them on being among the first tier of recyclers to achieve R2:2013 status,” said Patty Osterberg, SERI’s Director of Education & Outreach. “Their certification to the R2:2013 Standard exemplifies their strong commitment to protecting data security, protecting workers, protecting the environment and preserving our natural resources. Bargain Bytes provides a valuable service to the businesses and residents of the Dakotas and surrounding states.”

Certification was granted after successfully completing a rigorous independent audit of Bargain Bytes’ facility, processes and policies to verify conformance with the required standards. Along with R2:2013, the company also achieved OHSAS 18001 certification, which sets out best practices for occupational health and safety management.