Understand the latest developments on regulations related to RoHS

Over two modules, this course will provide an introductory understanding of the global regulations restricting hazardous substances in electric and electronic equipment (EEE). It will cover regulations such as the European Union RoHS Directive, as well as the adoption of ‘RoHS-type’ regulations by different countries around the world and other regulations also restricting hazardous substances in EEE.

The rise in the global production and use of EEE has resulted in an increasing volume of electrical and electronic waste. During the use, collection, treatment and disposal of such waste, the equipment may release harmful (hazardous) substances such as lead, cadmium and mercury, which can cause major health and environmental problems.

To address such problems, the EU introduced laws, such as the RoHS Directive, to restrict the use of certain hazardous substances in EEE. This Directive currently restricts the use of ten substances: four heavy metals, polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), and four phthalates. Discussions are already taking place to decide whether to add more to this list. All products with an electrical and/or electronic component have to comply with these restrictions, unless specifically excluded from it.

Many other countries are taking the same approach as the EU by adopting ‘RoHS-type’ regulations, however some still have different approaches in restricting hazardous substances in EEE, which we will also learn about in this course.

Here's what you'll learn by attending the course:

  • which hazardous substances are restricted in EEE;
  • how countries are restricting hazardous substances in EEE;
  • market surveillance;
  • labelling and marking; and
  • exemptions to the regulations.

Who should attend?

  • Staff of companies who place on the market finished EEE or components for EEE
  • Consulting companies
  • Other professionals who wish to improve their knowledge of the laws restricting hazardous chemicals in EEE