Is RoHS Compliance Required in the US?

With the increasing global awareness of environmental protection, more and more countries and regions have incorporated RoHS requirements into their environmental regulations for electronic and electrical products. For example, countries such as Serbia, Switzerland, Jordan, and Mexico have issued mandatory requirements or voluntary regulations for related products, while Norway, Brazil, and other countries have drafted similar RoHS-like regulations. Below, JJR Laboratory in China will share with you whether products exported to the US need ROHS certification and how to determine if a product complies with RoHS standards.

Do products exported to the US need RoHS certification?

The answer is yes. Some states in the US have already implemented regulations based on the EU RoHS Directive, including California, New Jersey, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, New York, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin. These states restrict certain substances covered by the EU RoHS Directive, such as heavy metals. Note: The California RoHS law is issued by the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and applies to companies selling electronic devices in California.

How to determine if a product complies with RoHS standards?

It is necessary to determine whether the content of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (CrVI), polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), and four different phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP) in the product is below the prescribed limits!

How to apply for RoHS certification?

RoHS is a mandatory standard established by the EU legislation, and it is one of the standards followed by multiple countries and regions.

1. Find a qualified third-party laboratory

2. Prepare the samples for testing

3. Fill out the ROHS Test application form

4. Send the samples and application form

5. Confirm the details of the commission, including the testing items and fees

6. Complete the payment

7. The test is completed and a report is generated

8. The client receives the report and invoice

When is the best time to apply for RoHS certification?

The earlier, the better. It’s better to enter the market early than late.

• In some countries and regions, RoHS certification is a prerequisite for market access.

• Many companies require the components and raw materials they purchase to be RoHS certified or conduct RoHS certification for their finished products.

• Obtaining RoHS certification demonstrates a commitment to environmental protection and increases market competitiveness.

Is RoHS certification valid for a long time?

• RoHS regulations do not have a fixed validity period requirement. The certification itself is based on the analysis of the product. As long as the product's materials, production processes, and procedures remain unchanged, the test report can be valid for a certain period. However, as RoHS certification standards continue to improve, companies must pay attention to regulatory updates and interpretations, as re-inspection and re-issuance of certificates and reports may be required after updates to the standards.