A: RoHS compliance refers to adhering to the regulations outlined in the “Restriction of Hazardous Substances” (RoHS) directive. This directive is issued by the European Union (EU). It restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products to minimize their environmental impact and protect human health. RoHS compliance ensures that products meet the specified limits for the restricted substances.

The primary goal of RoHS compliance is to reduce the presence of hazardous materials in electronic products and prevent these substances from being released into the environment during manufacturing, use, and disposal. These substances have been identified as harmful to human health and the environment, and limiting their use in electronic products helps minimize their negative effects. The restricted substances include:

  1. Lead (Pb)
  2. Mercury (Hg)
  3. Cadmium (Cd)
  4. Hexavalent chromium (Cr6+)
  5. Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB)
  6. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE)

Manufacturers, importers, and distributors of electrical and electronic equipment intended for sale within the European Union must ensure that their products comply with RoHS regulations. This typically involves conducting material testing, documentation, and quality control processes to confirm that the restricted substances are below the allowed limits.

RoHS compliance has become a global standard in electronics manufacturing, even beyond the EU. Many countries and regions worldwide have adopted similar regulations or standards to control hazardous substances in electronic products. Meeting Restriction of Hazardous Substances compliance requirements demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility, consumer safety, and international trade practices in the electronics industry.