ITAD Glossary

What is RIOS certification?

RIOS, the Recycling Industry Operating Standard, is a management system standard for recycling operations that combines quality, environmental, and health and safety requirements in a single certification. It was introduced by the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), now the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA).

RIOS certification

Why it matters for IT and security teams

It shows a recycler runs a disciplined operation beyond data security: consistent quality, environmental controls and worker safety. Many electronics recyclers hold it alongside R2.

RIOS certification

How it works

  • One management system covering quality, environment, and health and safety.
  • Consolidates requirements that would otherwise need ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 separately.
  • Audited by accredited third-party certification bodies.

RIOS certification

How HOBI handles it

Every HOBI facility, in Batavia, Dallas and Phoenix, is RIOS certified.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

ISO 14001 covers environmental management only. RIOS also covers quality and health and safety.

No. It was built for the recycling industry broadly, including electronics.

Yes. Many electronics recyclers are certified to both and are often audited for both at once.

Keep learning

Related terms and services

Need help retiring IT equipment?

Talk to HOBI about secure data destruction, value recovery and certified recycling, or call 877-814-2620.

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