Scope
Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS 2)
RoHS: Restriction of Hazardous Substances
The Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive limits the use of ten hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Manufacturers must ensure their products do not exceed maximum concentration values for lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, PBBs, PBDEs, and four phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP). Compliance requires analytical testing per the IECÂ 62321 series.
Scope
Applies to all electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) placed on the EU market, with limited exemptions for medical devices, monitoring and control instruments, and specific applications. Restricts 10 substances with defined maximum concentration values.
Key Dates
Compliance Timeline
2006-07-01
Original RoHS directive entered into force
2013-01-03
RoHS 2 (recast) entered into force
2019-07-22
Phthalate restrictions added (4 substances)
2021-07-21
Extended to all EEE categories
Testing
Required Test Methods
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What substances does RoHS restrict?
RoHS restricts ten substances: lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (Cr6+), polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), and four phthalates -- DEHP, BBP, DBP, and DIBP. Maximum concentration values are 0.1% by weight for most substances and 0.01% for cadmium.
What testing methods are used for RoHS compliance?
The IECÂ 62321 series provides the harmonised test methods: XRF screening (IEC 62321-3-1), wet chemical analysis for metals (IEC 62321-5), and GC-MS for phthalates (IEC 62321-8). XRF is typically used as a first pass, with confirmatory wet chemistry for borderline results.
Are there exemptions from RoHS?
Yes. RoHS provides exemptions for specific applications where technically viable alternatives do not exist. Examples include lead in high-melting-point solders and mercury in certain lamp types. Exemptions are time-limited and reviewed periodically by the European Commission.
How does RoHS relate to REACH and CE marking?
RoHS compliance is a prerequisite for CE marking of electrical and electronic equipment. REACH and RoHS overlap on some restricted substances but have different scopes and mechanisms. Products may need separate testing for each regulation.
Related
Related Regulations
This guide is an educational resource to help you understand testing requirements. It does not constitute legal advice. Always consult the official regulation text and qualified legal counsel for compliance decisions.