Business

Answering the FAQs About RoHS Compliance

Ever since the European Union has shown its concern about doing its bit for society, there have been multiple guidelines and directives that have come to our notice. As a commoner, these are extremely daunting and overwhelming. But these are extremely important for the manufacturers and the sellers in the EU region. 

These directives are mainly applicable if you are manufacturing or dealing with electronic goods. There are multiple hazardous materials used in that process, and hence the RoHS has been formed. To make things clearer for you, here are some most frequently asked questions answered for you.

What is RoHS?

RoHS stands for Restriction of Hazardous Substances, and it originated in the European Union. This directive completely restricts the use of certain hazardous materials that are found embedded in electronic and electrical products, also known as EEE. It has been a mandate for these products to pass the RoHS compliance after 1st July 2006.

What are the restricted substances under RoHS?

The substances that are restricted or banned under the RoHS directive are lead, mercury, cadmium, CrVI, PBB, PBDE, and four different phthalates, DEHP, DIBP, DBP, and BBP. 

Why is this RoHS important?

There are substances that are used in the manufacturing of EEE products in abundance. These quantities, when they go out into the environment, can take a toll on nature as well as human lives. They can pollute the landfills and might also cause threats in terms of occupational exposure during production or recycling. The RoHS compliance helps these substances to get used within the permissible limit and restrict the aftermaths.

How are the products tested for RoHS?

This is done easily with the help of portable RoHS analyzers. They are also known as X-ray fluorescence or XRF metal analyzers. They are primarily used for the screening and verification purposes of restricted metals in manufactured products. After the advent of RoHS 3, the testing methods have changed, and the compounds are now extracted using a solvent.

Which companies get affected by the RoHS directive?

Any business that produces or sells the EEE products, its sub-assemblies, components, or cables directly to the EU countries will be affected by RoHS. Along with this, the resellers, distributors, or integrators with the EU will also be impacted.

So, before you set your product out into the market or for sale, it is best to check if the products are RoHS compliant.