RoHS Recast: New definitions – new scope

The RoHS Recast is expected to be published in the Official Journal of the European Union in June.

Besides the new product categories and new obligations for documentation and labeling, also elementary definitions will change. There will be changes with an impact on the decision whether or not a product will be in the scope of RoHS. These changes will mainly be in the definitions of EEE, fixed installation and large scale stationary industry tools.

For companies not affected by RoHS I, these changes will mean an imperative check of these definitions with regard to their products. Such an assessment evaluates the definitions and the requirements for the manufacturer, importer or distributor of electronic and electrical equipment. As the member states will have to transpose the recast RoHS directive into national law within 18 months after the publication, companies should use the time and already start analyzing their situation and duties right after the publication in the Official Journal.