RoHS and REACH Compliance

The European Union (EU) enforces strict safety regulations to limit hazardous materials in products sold within the EU market. Two of the most important regulations are REACHand RoHS, each with distinct compliance requirements and enforcement mechanisms. REACHcompliance focuses on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restrictionof chemicals, while RoHScompliance restricts the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Though there are some similarities between REACH and RoHS, understanding their differences is critical for maintaining compliance and avoiding legal risks.

Scope of EU REACH vs. RoHS

While both regulations aim to limit harmful substances, the scope of REACH is broaderthan that of RoHS. The EU reach regulation applies to almost all products, whereas the EU RoHS Directive specifically targets electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).

EU REACH Regulation

REACH restricts the use of certain chemicals in all parts and productsthat are manufactured, sold, or imported within the EU.

EU RoHS Directive

RoHS restricts the use of 10 hazardous substancesin electronic and electrical equipment that is manufactured, distributed, or imported into the EU.

Restricted Substances under EU REACH and RoHS

Both REACH and RoHS maintain their own lists of restricted substances, managed by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

Substances under EU REACH

REACH restricts the use of various chemical substances in all components and products within the EU. These restrictions apply whether the substances are used individually, in mixtures, or as part of articles.

Substances under EU RoHS

RoHS limits the use of 10 specific hazardous substancesin electrical and electronic equipment to the following maximum concentrations:

1. Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP): < 1000 ppm

2. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP): < 1000 ppm

3. Cadmium (Cd): < 100 ppm

4. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP): < 1000 ppm

5. Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP): < 1000 ppm

6. Hexavalent chromium (Cr VI): < 1000 ppm

7. Lead (Pb): < 1000 ppm

8. Mercury (Hg): < 1000 ppm

9. Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB): < 1000 ppm

10. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE): < 1000 ppm

According to Article 4(1)of the EU RoHS Directive, certain exemptionsapply. Annexes III and IV outline specific scenarios where restricted substances may be used. Any exemptions must be clearly disclosed in the RoHS Declaration of Conformity.

How Companies Can Comply with EU REACH and RoHS

Both REACH and RoHS have specific compliance requirements that companies must meet. Maintaining compliance is an ongoing process that involves continuous monitoring and documentation.

EU reach compliance

Companies that manufacture, distribute, or import more than one tonne per yearof a substance must apply for authorization to use substances listed on the REACH Authorization List(SVHC – Substances of Very High Concern). In addition, substances on the Restriction Listmust not be used above permitted limits.

> Need a structured approach? Read our EU REACH Compliance: Five-Step Guidefor a clear, actionable roadmap.

EU RoHS Compliance

RoHS is a self-declaration directive, meaning companies are responsible for ensuring compliance and must document it through the ce marking. This mark indicates that technical documentation has been created, detailing product information and steps taken to ensure compliance. Once the product enters the market, companies must retain this documentation for 10 years.