RoHS (RESTRICTION OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES)

RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) - Overview

Since the early 2000s, electronic waste and the use of hazardous chemicals in electronics have become increasingly common. Substances like radium for glow-in-the-dark features or lead-tin alloys for soldering offered benefits, but few people realized the dangers they posed to health and the environment. Over time, exposure to these toxic substances has been linked to serious health problems, including lung cancer and other diseases. Recognizing these risks, the European Union (EU) introduced the Restriction of Hazardous Substances, or RoHS, in February 2003 to limit the use of certain toxic materials in electronics.

The RoHS directive became effective on July 1, 2006, and EU member countries were required to make it law within their own borders. RoHS restricts certain harmful chemicals in electrical and electronic equipment, aiming to reduce the environmental and health impacts of these products. The main goal behind RoHS is to create safer electronics by reducing the use of hazardous substances.

What is RoHS Certification?

RoHS, or the "Restriction of Hazardous Substances," is also known as Directive 2002/95/EC. This directive restricts the use of specific harmful substances in electrical and electronic products. RoHS is closely linked to the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) regulations, which set rules for managing electronic waste safely. Together, RoHS and WEEE work to reduce pollution from electronics and protect public health.

Why Was RoHS Introduced?

The electronics industry has historically relied on materials that pose significant health and environmental risks if not managed carefully. RoHS was introduced for three main reasons:

RoHS compliance covers a wide range of electronic and electrical equipment, ensuring products meet safety and environmental standards.

Certain categories may be exempt or excluded due to safety, technological, or logistical reasons.

RoHS targets ten substances known as the “RoHS 10” that pose health and environmental risks. Each material’s concentration must not exceed 0.1% by weight (cadmium is capped at 0.01%) in any individual component.

RoHS and CE Marking: Compliance is essential for obtaining CE marking on products sold in the EU. Non-compliance prevents CE marking and may result in a ban from EU markets.

RoHS is more than just a regulatory hurdle—it represents a global shift toward safer, more sustainable electronics. By requiring companies to reduce or eliminate hazardous materials, RoHS has encouraged safer production practices, spurred technological innovation, and protected both consumers and the environment.

For businesses aiming to comply, understanding the RoHS requirements and maintaining regular testing and monitoring practices is essential. As global regulations evolve, RoHS remains a cornerstone of environmental and health protection in the electronics industry, setting the standard for safer, greener electronics worldwide.