Lamps and Light Sources
WEEE Category 3 covers electric lamps and light sources intended for the production of light. This includes, in particular, various types of electric light sources used in private households, businesses, and public institutions.
An important distinction must be made when classifying these items: A lamp or light source is not automatically the same as a luminaire. Replaceable light sources may fall under Category 3, while the luminaire itself may be classified under a different WEEE category.
Which lamps fall under Category 3?
Typical examples include:
- LED lamps
- LED light sources
- Fluorescent lamps
- Compact fluorescent lamp
- Certain gas-discharge lamps
- Other electric lamps used for lighting
The specific classification depends on the product’s design and function.
Lamp or luminaire – what’s the difference?
This distinction is particularly important for WEEE categorization.
A replaceable light source with a standardized base, such as an LED lamp, can be classified under WEEE Category 3. A luminaire into which a light source is inserted, on the other hand, may belong to a different category (depending on its size, either Category 4 – large appliances; or Category 5 – small appliances).
Products with additional electronic functions must also be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The decisive factor is whether the requirements for classification as a lamp are met or whether the product must be assigned to a different category based on its function and design.
WEEE Obligations for Lamps
Manufacturers and importers who place lamps on the market in Germany must comply with the provisions of the ElektroG and the requirements of the ear Foundation. This includes correct WEEE categorization and – where required – registration prior to placing the product on the market.
In addition, the legal requirements regarding labeling, take-back, and disposal must be observed.
Not sure how to classify your electrical device under the WEEE Directive?
ECOPV-EU assists manufacturers and importers in correctly classifying their electrical and electronic equipment, as well as with WEEE registration and the fulfillment of their legal obligations as manufacturers.
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