Industry uncertain over RoHS proposals

This is a contribution by Farnell's Gary Nevison

UK: There are concerns within industry over a European Parliament proposal to increase the scope of the RoHS Directive to capture all electrical and electronic equipment rather than just the current eight (plus two more in 2014) product categories.

Orgalime, the European Engineering Industries Association representing the interests of, among others, the Electrical and Electronic industries feels that the proposal has not been properly thought through and has called for a thorough impact assessment.

The substantial changes proposed would bring nearly all equipment including trains, planes, power plants and elevators within the scope of RoHS even though they have specific safety requirements and are treated differently at the end of their life.
Denmark and the European Parliament are carrying out studies on a separate proposal for restrictions on additional hazardous substances.

While many back the proposal to ban further substances, especially brominated flame retardants and PVCs, some feel that setting criteria for future bans would only delay the introduction of greener electronic products onto the market.

Both industry groups and some politicians suggest that any revised law should contain a science based methodology for future substance evaluation, to be carried out by the European Commission, based on the REACH Regulations. Going-forward restrictions would be added to an annex within the RoHS Directive.

Concerns were raised again expressing the view that insufficient impact assessments have been conducted on the effects of further restrictions and possible substitutes.

The original RoHS Directive has been under review for some considerable time including various stakeholder consultations. The recast has been through three versions with proposals in December 2008, September 2009 and November 2009. These are aimed a greater harmonisation with other directives, clearer definitions and scope for better enforcement.

The European Commission, European Parliament and Council of Ministers have to agree on a final draft. There are currently differing views on such subjects as scope, LSIT, fixed installations, substance restrictions, exemptions and CE compliance, although there is agreement in general on the latter.

Expect a decision late 2010/early 2011.