Exemptions
To date the main specific exemptions identified include the following:
- Products intended specifically for a military purpose
- Filament light bulbs
- Household luminaries
- Implanted/infected medical equipment
- Large scale stationary/fixed industrial tools
Only equipment with a voltage rating not exceeding 1000v AC and 1500v DC is included in the WEEE directive.
The intention is for the directive to only apply to products whose primary function requires the electrical component. For example, a singing birthday card would be exempt as the primary function is being a birthday card despite the musical accompaniment.