RoHS Directive
RoHS, the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, given as Directive 2011/65/EU, is European Union legislation that restricts the use of certain hazardous materials in electrical and electronic equipment. It limits substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium and specified flame retardants, protecting health and the environment and easing recycling.
Key Takeaways
RoHS restricts the use of specified hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.
It is defined by Directive 2011/65/EU, sometimes referenced with later amendments.
Restricted substances include lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium and certain flame retardants.
RoHS compliance is required for products placed on the European Union market and is shown within CE marking.
RoHS limits the concentration of a defined set of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. The aim is to reduce the environmental and health impact of these materials during use and at end of life.
The directive restricts substances including lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, certain brominated flame retardants and specified phthalates, each limited to a maximum concentration by weight in homogeneous materials.
Compliance with RoHS is one of the requirements covered by CE marking. Manufacturers declare conformity and maintain technical documentation showing that their products meet the substance limits.
RoHS restricts a specific list of substances in electronic equipment, while REACH is a broader chemicals framework covering registration and control across many product types. The two are complementary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Restriction of Hazardous Substances, a European Union directive limiting certain materials in electrical and electronic equipment.
Lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, certain brominated flame retardants and specified phthalates, among others.
No. RoHS restricts specific substances in electronics, while REACH is a broader chemicals regulation covering many products.
Yes. RoHS compliance is one of the requirements a product must meet to carry CE marking in the European Union.
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