RoHS: Restrictions on hazardous substances

The Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) Regulations 2012 affect businesses and individuals that are involved with electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). This includes manufacturers, importers and distributors.

The regulations:

• limit the use of hazardous substances such as lead and cadmium in EEE to be placed or made available on the market anywhere in the UK or European Union, and
• require that finished EEE be CE marked.
• Until 31 December 2023 both the CE mark and the UKCA mark can be used by businesses. After 31 December 2023 EEE must have the UKCA mark.

This guide explains the main requirements of the RoHS Regulations 2012, who they affect and how they are enforced.