Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) are standards instituted in July 2006 for printed circuit boards (PCB) and their components being manufactured for distribution within the European Union. The standards are designed to reduce environmental effects by substances used in the manufacture of PCBs and some other products. Certain substances are restricted. Industries that are affected include information technology, telecommunications, toys, medical devices, electrical and electronic tools, and leisure, sports and monitoring equipment.
Restricted Substances
Substances that are restricted under the regulations are cadmium, hexavalent chromium, mercury, lead, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) and polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs). Cadmium is used in LEDs, paints, pigments, detectors, devices, plastics and phosphorescent coatings. Hexavalent chromium is used in pigments, paints, corrosion protection and alloys. Mercury is used in lamps, lighting, polyurethane materials, paints, pigments and switches. Lead is used in metal parts, chassis, washers, solder, interconnects, batteries, paints, pigments, sealing glasses and PVC cables. PBDE and PBB are used in various applications for their flame-retardant characteristics.
Exemptions
Restricted substances are exempt from the restrictions in certain applications. Lead is exempt in CRT tubes and piezoelectric devices. Certain medical devices and industrial tools are exempt. Non-conforming parts can be used to repair devices that were sold before the implementation of the restrictions. Non-conforming parts cannot be used to repair devices that were sold after the restrictions were implemented.
Products Affected
Under the current guidelines, a number of consumer products are affected. RoSH affects large appliances such as refrigerators and washers as well as small appliances such as vacuum cleaners and coffeemakers. Computing and communication equipment such as computers and phones are affected. The regulations address consumer electronics such as televisions and DVD players. Lights, lighting fixtures and light bulbs are specified. Toys and sports equipment such as video games and treadmills are affected. Power tools such as drills and blowers are named. Automatic dispensers such as ATMs and vending machines are affected as well.
Purpose of RoHS
RoHS is intended to reduce the amount of hazardous materials going into landfills by restricting their use in manufactured goods. Additionally, the regulations are intended to reduce hazards to workers during the manufacture and recycling of such products. RoHS2 is scheduled to be implemented by 2012, and proposals have been made to include medical and monitoring devices in the restrictions. The restricted substances in the regulations remain the same. RoHS works in conjunction with the Waste from Electrical and Electric Equipment directive. Restricted products for the EU market must carry the "Wheelie Bin" sticker to show compliance with the regulations.
