Although a lot is done right in vehicle dismantling, there is always room for improvement. For example, in terms of a level playing field. Environmental regulations are still flouted here and there in the sector. ARN and Stiba, in the Netherlands, are trying to do something about this, sometimes with the help of the RDW. The renewed quality label for the vehicle dismantling sector (KZD) will certainly contribute to this.
By simplifying a number of topics and by adding questions about dismantling electric vehicles as an extra chapter, the certification for sustainable vehicle dismantling has been designed in a contemporary and future-proof manner. From now on, part of the audit will also be held online for practical reasons.
The new standard is divided into two levels: KZD and KZDPlus. In addition, there is an additional option: KZD-E. This is an optional addition to the KZD or KZDPlus standard.
The updated KZD standard has been established by the board of experts and practitioners from the vehicle dismantling industry have been involved in the adjustments.
Reducing unfair competition
Earlier, at the ARN Relations Day 2022 in Kootwijk, we paid attention to the renewed certification, which now also focuses on the dismantling of electric and hybrid vehicles, storage of batteries, working safely and a level playing field. Stiba’s Stefan Cabri said of the latter:
“That’s important for the industry – there’s a lot of unfair competition. We are also moving towards accreditation to make the standard independent.” Furthermore, traceable parts will become mandatory. “We cannot escape this.”
To undermine the trade in stolen parts, the Digital Purchase Register will become national legislation. From March 1, 2023, companies can certify themselves for the new KZD standard.
The new standard is divided into two levels: KZD and KZDPlus. In addition, there is an extra option: KZD-E. This is an optional addition to the KZD or KZDPlus standard.
New recognition system
Willem Rijnberg of the RDW spoke at the Relations Day about the recognition system that will be overhauled in the coming years:
“The current system has worked well for 25 years, but it is also very rigid.” He clarifies that everything is anchored at the highest level. ”If you want to change something, you have to change the law, which is a long process.” Together with the sector associations involved, such as the Rai Association, BOVAG and Stiba, the RDW has thought about what the new approval system should look like. This proposal is now with the Ministry.
“If it is implemented, as a company, you will first have to apply for basic recognition from the RDW. If you meet the requirements and conditions, you will receive the RDW basic recognition. You can then request specific approvals, such as MOT, company stock and disassembly (ORAD).”
Because these special recognitions are placed at a lower legal level, changing things becomes easier. “This way, we will be more flexible in the future. Supervision of this will also become easier.” In this way, the RDW will soon be able to better tackle rogue companies. “And in the event of very serious violations that affect undermining, we will soon be able to withdraw the basic recognition, which means that the specific recognitions will also lapse.” Rijnberg emphasizes that the RDW mainly focuses on behavioral change. “Sometimes a consultation works better than a sanction. This way we can deliver more custom work.”
Disassembly Recognition
With regard to the dismantling recognition, the RDW wants to help make KZD preconditions in order to create a level playing field in the dismantling sector. “This is a step in the right direction.”
Additional standard chapter: KZD-E
Companies with the KZD-E option comply with the additional standard chapter on propulsion batteries. The companies that have this have been tested on a number of necessary points for the safe dismantling and storage of drive batteries from electric and hybrid vehicles. The KZD-E is an option within both the KZD and KZDPlus standards and is not available separately.
Transition period
The updated standard will take effect from 1 March 2023 and has a transition period of three years. Dismantling companies that start with KZD for the first time from 01/03/23 and companies that go for recertification will be immediately audited for the new standard. Companies that have been audited for the current standard before 01/03/23 have up to three years to transfer to the new standard. Incidentally, it is not necessary to wait three years: from 1 March 2023, it will be possible to obtain the renewed quality label.
For more information and documents, visit: kzd.info
This article was originally published at arn.nl
