RoHSsäädösten

RoHS, or Restriction of Hazardous Substances, is a European Union directive that restricts the use of specific hazardous materials found in electrical and electronic equipment. The primary goal of RoHS is to protect human health and the environment from the risks posed by these substances. The directive, officially known as Directive 2011/65/EU, has been updated over time to include more substances and to cover a wider range of products.

The restricted substances under RoHS include lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Later amendments added four phthalates: bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP). These substances are found in various electronic components and manufacturing processes.

Manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment placed on the EU market must ensure their products comply with RoHS regulations. This typically involves providing a Declaration of Conformity and marking products with the CE mark. Compliance is essential for market access within the European Union. RoHS regulations have also influenced similar legislation in other countries and regions, promoting a global move towards safer electronic products. The directive aims to facilitate the environmentally sound recovery and recycling of electronic waste.