Due to come into effect on 1 July 2006, the EU directive RoHS ['Restriction of use of certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment'] will over time have significant consequences for South African suppliers of electronic and electrical equipment or components to the EU and certain world markets.
Says Brian Andrew, general manager for RS Components South Africa, "RoHS is an EU directive that restricts the use of lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in the manufacture of various types of electronic and electrical equipment. The maximum concentrations of these substances may not exceed permitted levels. These are typically 0,1% by weight of the homogenous material with the exception of cadmium, where the limit is 0,01%."
Ordinarily the above substances are found in a wide variety of products such as solders, termination coatings, paint, PVC, contacts, fluorescent lamps, sensors, relays, anti corrosion coatings and flame retardants used in plastics.
Andrew went on to say that there was a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the matter, "Research conducted by RS UK revealed that many companies are unaware of the full implications that the RoHS directive will have on their businesses and are not taking the necessary steps to address them. As one of the leading high service level distributors of electronic, electrical and industrial components as well as products to the South African market, RS is committed to helping its customers understand and comply. Globally, RS has taken a proactive stance to stay abreast of this important industry development and have been working closely with a number of leading industry experts to identify as well as interpret the implications of RoHS. This information is available on the RS website. We have identified all of the products in our range that would be affected by RoHS. This compliance is now indicated by compliant, non-compliant and exempt symbols when customers search for and view products on our website."
Based on the global nature of industry it is also important to remember that RoHS will not only affect the EU as similar legislation is being developed in a number of other countries. This will have major implications for any South African-based companies involved in exporting equipment, components or products containing these substances.
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