RoHS Background

RoHS background details:

• WEEE Directive [2002/96/EC]
  The WEEE directive provides the basis for the definition of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE), and outlines the 10 product categories that are covered. The products that are covered by RoHS follow the WEEE definition, with two categories exempt till 2010. [Source: Official Journal of the EU]
• RoHS Directive [2002/95/EC]
  The RoHS directive provides the legal basis for member states to implement RoHS regulations, defines the “producer” and sets the enforcement date as 1 July 2006. [Source: Official Journal of the EU]
• FAQ on RoHS and WEEE
  This FAQ provides a number of examples to use to determine whether or not a product (line) falls under the RoHS directive. It interprets concepts like “part of other equipment”, professional use, batteries, consumables, spare/repair parts and what constitutes “put on the market.” [Source: European Commission]
• DTI, RoHS Regulations, Government Guidance Notes [November 2005]
  Must read! This document is an excellent guide on how the regulations are expected to be interpreted. It explains the concept of “homogeneous material,” compliance declaration, enforcement, and offences and penalties. [Source: UK Department of Trade and Industry]
• Time is Running Out for RoHS Compliance
  Article based on an Arena Solutions Webinar, outlining the key issues in a RoHS transition, specifically addressing the need for structured data management to demonstrate due diligence. [Source: Arena Solutions / GreenSupplyLine.com - CMP]
• DTI, RoHS Enforcement Guidance Document [May 2006]
  Must read! This document outlines how RoHS may be enforced, providing valuable insight into the type of controls that need to be put in place, and the type of evidence documentation that needs to be compiled. [Source: National Weights & Measure Laboratory, DTI]
• Conformity certificates will not satisfy RoHS legislation
  Article outlining the need to evaluate compliance evidence on the quality of the information and not blindly rely on conformity certificates. Demonstrating due diligence requires structured conformance assessment and proper documentation management. [Source: ElectronicsWeekly.com]
• Demonstrating compliance with the RoHS Directive
  Must read! This article provides an overview of the various levels and types of evidence that can be considered to demonstrate compliance as part of self declaration. It emphasizes that the evidence must reflect the activities undertaken to both determine and maintain compliance. [Source: ElectronicsWeekly.com].
• RoHS—More than just ticking a box
  The article provides one supplier’s practical insights into considerations around PCB transition to RoHS compliance. [Source: ElectronicsWeekly.com].
• Environmental Compliance Poses Several Business Risks
  Article based on interviews with PRTM on the business risks the executive team should consider when dealing with RoHS. Includes an overview of the various penalties. [Source: GreenSupplyLine.com / CMP].
• China RoHS
  [Administrative Measures on the Control of Pollution Caused by Electronic Information Products]. This document is an unofficial translation by Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati of Chinese regulations similar to RoHS. It demonstrates companies will need to implement procedures and systems that can deal with a variety of environmental compliance regulations, not just the EU RoHS requirements. [Source: Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati].
• China to postpone RoHS regulation
  Interview with the Chinese Ministry of Information Industry (MII) on the status of the Chinese RoHS initiative. [Source: GreenSupplyLine.com / CMP].
• Fill in the blanks—China’s open-ended RoHS requirements raise concern
  Article outlines some of the challenges with the current publication of the Chinese RoHS regulation. [Source: GreenSupplyLine.com / CMP]