What does RoHS stand for?
RoHS is an abbreviation for the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive.
What does it mean if a wire or cable product is listed as RoHS compliant?
A wire or cable product labeled RoHS compliant follows the guidelines listed by the European Union under the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS). A product that is RoHS compliant contains no lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls, or polybrominated diphenyl ethers. RoHS material substitutes these with more environmentally friendly alternatives.
When was the RoHS Directive created?
The European Union adopted the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) in July 2006. It was later revised and the RoHS Recast Directive (RoHS 2) took effect in January 2013.
What is the purpose of the RoHS Directive?
According to the EU, the RoHS Directive hopes to "prevent the generation of hazardous waste." The RoHS Directive is in place to protect the environment and reduce exposure-related health risks by restricting the use of hazardous materials in the manufacturing of electronic and electrical equipment.
The revisions made in RoHS 2 mostly address legalities and regulation enforcement policies. RoHS 2 also broadened the scope of the directive, removing some of the exemptions previously in place. RoHS is closely linked with the WEEE directive, which regulates the disposal of electronic waste.
Who does RoHS affect?
According to the RoHS Directive, compliance is the responsibility of “Economic Operators”, which includes manufacturers, authorized representatives, importers, and distributors.
What kinds of products does RoHS affect?
The directive currently applies to the materials used in the production of electronic devices belonging to the following categories:
- Large and small household appliances
- IT and telecommunications equipment
- Consumer equipment
- Light bulbs and other lighting equipment
- Electronic and electrical tools
- Toys, leisure, and sports equipment
- Medical devices
- Monitoring/control instruments
- Automatic dispensers
- Semiconductor devices
What are the main differences between RoHS and RoHS 2?
The revisions made in RoHS 2 are meant to improve the directive’s effectiveness. RoHS 2 includes previously exempt products, and clearly defines the new exemption process. RoHS 2 also includes the addition of a CE mark requirement on RoHS compliant products.
Where can I get the most up-to-date information on changes to RoHS directives?
The RoHS page on the EU website is the best resource for current news.
Does Allied Wire distribute RoHS compliant products?
Yes. Your Allied Wire and Cable sales representative can assist you with meeting RoHS requirements.
Related Links:
RoHS vs REACH
Allied Wire and Cable Compliances
Standards and Organizations FAQs