Why is it important to test electrical and electronic equipment for the presence of hazardous substances – the RoHS directive?
Modern electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) is an integral part of our daily lives. However, not everyone realizes that some of these devices may contain substances harmful to human health and the environment. To minimize the risks associated with the presence of such substances, the European Union introduced Directive 2011/65/EU, known as RoHS II, along with its amendment – Delegated Directive 2015/863, or RoHS II+ (commonly referred to as RoHS III).
What is the RoHS directive?
RoHS is an abbreviation for "Restriction of Hazardous Substances." The aim of these directives is to limit the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment, thereby protecting human health and the natural environment.
- RoHS II has been in force since January 3, 2013,
- RoHS II+ (commonly referred to as RoHS III), which expands the list of restricted substances, came into effect on July 22, 2019.
Which substances are restricted?
Directives RoHS II and III specify the following substances whose use in EEE manufacturing is restricted:
- Lead (Pb) – used, among others, in solder.
- Mercury (Hg) – found in certain types of lamps and batteries.
- Cadmium (Cd) – used in batteries and protective coatings.
- Hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺)⁺) – used in anti-corrosive coatings.
- Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) – used as flame retardants in plastics.
- Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) – also function as flame retardants.
- Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) – used as a plasticizer in plastics.
- Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) – a plasticizer in PVC.
- Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) – used in adhesives and coatings.
- Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) – used in paints and varnishes.
The first six substances were restricted under RoHS II, while the last four phthalates were added under RoHS III.
Why are these substances dangerous?
The listed substances can have serious negative health effects, including:
- Metallic toxins: Lead, mercury, and cadmium are heavy metals that can accumulate in the body even in small amounts, leading to damage to the kidneys, liver, and nervous system.
- Carcinogens: Hexavalent chromium is recognized as a carcinogenic and mutagenic substance that can damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer.
- Hormonal disruptors: PBB, PBDE, and phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP) can interfere with the hormonal system, affecting fetal development, fertility, and increasing the risk of allergies and asthma in children.
Duties of manufacturers, importers and distributors
According to the RoHS directives, entities introducing electrical and electronic equipment to the European Union market are required to:
- Ensure that their products comply with the restrictions on hazardous substances.
- Prepare technical documentation confirming compliance.
- Affix the CE mark on the product, indicating that the product meets the directive requirements.
- Retain the documentation for a specified period and make it available upon request by supervisory authorities.
Failure to comply with these obligations may result in sanctions such as product recalls, the necessity to modify the product, or the imposition of financial penalties.
The importance of testing electrical and electronic equipment
Conducting laboratory tests on electrical and electronic equipment for hazardous substances is crucial to ensure:
- User safety – by eliminating the risk of poisoning, allergies, and other illnesses caused by toxic substances.
- Minimization of legal and financial risks – by avoiding fines, product recalls, or costly modifications.
- Building trust among customers and business partners – by confirming that products meet international safety standards.
- Supporting pro-environmental initiatives – by reducing the emission of harmful substances into the environment.
Electrical and electronic equipment can pose a real threat to human health and the environment if it contains substances restricted by the RoHS directives. Professional laboratory tests are therefore an essential tool for quality control. Regular product testing not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also protects consumers from the harmful effects of toxic substances. Maintaining product safety translates into greater customer trust and business success, while simultaneously contributing to global environmental protection efforts.
RCC – professional RoHS testing
Committed to the highest testing standards and consumer safety, RCC offers comprehensive laboratory services that enable a thorough analysis of electrical and electronic equipment for hazardous substances. With modern testing methods, RCC supports manufacturers, importers, and distributors in ensuring product compliance with current standards and directives. For more details about the offer, visit the RoHS Testing Service page. By choosing RCC, you are opting for safety, quality, and expert support in product testing.
