RoHS is a compliance testing that has been made compulsory for restricting the use of hazardous materials in both the production of electrical and electronic goods within the European Union. This requirement has continuous updates and it can be confusing if you do not know in detail about the changes. Hence, we have put a list of frequently asked questions about RoHS that will help you comply with the regulations while importing goods to the EU.
What is RoHS?
RoHS is a common term used in manufacturing, trade and quality control. It stands for the Restriction of Hazardous Substances and the product manufacturing must comply with the permissive limits set by this directive. The compliant products also should not exceed the allowable amounts of certain restrictive materials like lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, PBB or PBDE.
What is its purpose?
The RoHS directive ensures that the restrictive materials are put under controlled usage and are not damaging the environment by any means. It has been introduced with the motive of promoting the welfare of the consumers, distributors, manufacturers and the environment at large. It has become necessary for the safety of the public as exposure to the banned chemicals might cause medical impacts.
What is a RoHS test?
The initial part of the RoHS test is X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy, which is used on the parts of the products that have the highest risk of containing the banned substances. There are other prevalent testing methods present that involve Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy and the Scanning Electron Microscope.
How are REACH and RoHS related?
Both of these directives aim to reduce the usage of the restricted substances that are detrimental for both humans as well as the environment. The REACH controls the risks that are associated with the chemical substances of the products and aim to maintain them throughout the product’s life cycle. The RoHS, on the other hand, is product specific and focuses entirely on maintaining compliance with using hazardous substances in the electrical as well as electronic equipment.
What is the RoHS product list?
- Lead
- Cadmium
- Mercury
- Hexavalent chromium
- PBB
- PBDE
- DEHP
- BPP
- DBP
- DIBP
- Automatic dispensers
- Electrical and electronic goods
- Consumer equipment
- IT and telecommunications equipment
- Medical devices
- Monitoring devices
- Small household appliances
- Lighting equipment
- Toys, leisure and sport equipment
- Every other electronic device
It is the best idea to have the Enviropass RoHS testing done before you are proceeding with importing goods with the EU and stay on the safer side.
