Who is subject to producer responsibility?

Two factors decide whether or not a business is subject to producer responsibility for electrical and electronic equipment.

• First level of distribution chain The first factor deals with the distribution chain. In Denmark, the first level of the distribution chain is subject to producer responsibility. A foreign business is also covered if it deals in distance sale directly to private households in Denmark.
• Equipment dependent on electric currents The second factor concerns the type of equipment. If the equipment is electrical or electronic equipment - is dependent on electric currents or electromagnetic fields – it is covered. In the Danish Order ten general categories have been set up under which equipment can be categorized. Some categories have exemptions of functional nature. The producer is responsible for clarifying whether or not equipment is covered.

Note: It is illegal to market electrical and electronic equipment covered by producer responsibility without being registered in DPA-System.

All levels carry responsibility

With the exception of businesses within distance selling the legal unit subject to producer responsibility always has a Danish CVR number (Central Business Register number). Producers/importers must therefore make sure that a business in Denmark has assumed producer responsibility for the equipment in question.

If a business buys equipment covered by producer responsibility from a business not having assumed this responsibility it is in conflict with the law.