Understanding RoHS Compliance: Safeguarding Health and Environment in Electronics Manufacturing
Introduction
In today’s global electronics industry, environmental responsibility and consumer safety are at the forefront of regulatory priorities. One of the most significant legislative measures aimed at reducing environmental and health risks is the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive. RoHS plays a crucial role in curbing the use of dangerous substances in electrical and electronic equipment, promoting safer products and more sustainable manufacturing practices.
What is RoHS?
RoHS, formerly known as Directive 2011/65/EU, was first adopted by the European Union in 2003 and came into effect on July 1, 2006. It restricts the use of specific hazardous materials found in electrical and electronic products. The directive applies to equipment sold in the EU market and has been adopted or mirrored by many other countries worldwide.
Substances Restricted by RoHS
As of the latest updates, RoHS restricts the use of ten substances, including:
1. Lead (Pb) – 0.1%
2. Mercury (Hg) – 0.1%
3. Cadmium (Cd) – 0.01%
4. Hexavalent Chromium (Cr⁶⁺) – 0.1%
5. Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs) – 0.1%
6. Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) – 0.1%
7. Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) – 0.1%
8. Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) – 0.1%
9. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) – 0.1%
10. Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) – 0.1%
These substances are commonly used in solder, plastics, paints, and other electronic components, but pose significant risks to human health and the environment.
RoHS Scope and Applicability
RoHS applies to a wide range of electronic products, including:
• Large and small household appliances
• IT and telecommunications equipment
• Consumer electronics
• Lighting
• Power tools
• Toys, leisure, and sports equipment
• Medical devices and monitoring instruments (with certain exemptions)
• Control and monitoring equipment
While the scope has expanded over the years, some applications and products still have exemptions, particularly where no viable alternative substances exist or where technical limitations prevent substitution.
RoHS Impact on Manufacturers and Supply Chains
RoHS compliance is not optional for companies selling electronic goods in the EU.
Manufacturers must ensure their products meet the directive’s requirements, which includes:
• Testing and documentation of components
• Supply chain due diligence
• Technical documentation and risk assessments
• CE marking and the Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including product recalls, fines, and restrictions on market access.
RoHS and Global Influence
Though initially an EU regulation, RoHS has had a global ripple effect. Countries such as China, Japan, India, South Korea, and the United States have developed similar laws inspired by RoHS principles. This has led to the broader adoption of green electronics and more sustainable manufacturing worldwide.
RoHS vs. REACH: What’s the Difference?
RoHS is often confused with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals). While both aim to reduce chemical risks, RoHS specifically targets electrical and electronic products and focuses on substance content limitations, whereas REACH applies broadly across industries and addresses chemical safety throughout a substance’s life cycle.
Conclusion
RoHS compliance is more than a regulatory obligation—it is a commitment to environmental stewardship and public health.
As consumers become increasingly aware of the ecological and health impacts of the products they use, adherence to RoHS standards serves as a critical differentiator in the global marketplace.
For manufacturers, staying compliant means not only avoiding legal pitfalls but also aligning with a sustainable and responsible future.
All products supplied by Connexion Developments conform to RoHS Recast Directive 2002/95/EC - 2011/65/EU - 2015/863
Read European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), ROHS Directive -Restricted Substances as per Article 4(1), Annex II.
The list contains the substances listed in Annex II to the Directive on the restriction of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS - 2011/65/EU). Restricted per Art. 4(1) of RoHS, each listed substance includes a maximum concentration value tolerated by weight in homogeneous materials.
Read gov.uk/guidance/rohs-compliance-and-guidance
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