Understanding RoHS and REACH Compliance in Electronics Manufacturing
RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) are fundamental to electronics manufacturing. These EU directives set strict limitations on the use of hazardous substances in electronic components and finished products. They not only protect consumers and the environment but also ensure that manufacturers produce high-quality and sustainable products.
Additionally, growing concerns over PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) have led to stricter regulations worldwide, impacting material selection and supply chain strategies in electronics manufacturing.
At Circad Design, we prioritise compliance with these regulations to deliver high-quality, environmentally friendly, and globally marketable products for our clients. In this article, we explore the significance of RoHS, REACH and PFAS compliance, their impact on electronics manufacturing, and how Circad implements these practices to ensure excellence.
What is RoHS Compliance?
RoHS is a directive aimed at restricting the use of specific hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. The primary goal of RoHS is to reduce environmental and health risks associated with toxic materials in electronics.
The RoHS directive currently limits the use of the following substances:
Lead (Pb)
Mercury (Hg)
Cadmium (Cd)
Hexavalent Chromium (Cr6+)
Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB)
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE)
Four Phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP)
Manufacturers must ensure that all components and materials used in their products comply with these restrictions. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines, product recalls, and restrictions on selling in the European market.
What is REACH Compliance?
REACH is a regulation that focuses on the safety of chemicals used in manufacturing and their impact on human health and the environment. Unlike RoHS, which applies specifically to electronic products, REACH covers all chemical substances used in industry, including those found in electronic devices.
Key aspects of REACH include:
Registration: Companies must register chemicals used in their processes with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
Evaluation: Authorities assess the potential risks associated with these chemicals.
Authorisation: Certain hazardous substances may require authorisation before they can be used.
Restriction: Specific chemicals may be banned or restricted due to health and environmental concerns.
Manufacturers must ensure that none of the Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) exceed permitted levels in their products. This requires thorough material tracking and supply chain transparency.
What is PFAS Compliance?
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial applications, including electronics manufacturing, due to their water- and grease-resistant properties.
PFAS are often found in:
Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) – Used in coatings to improve durability and resistance to heat.
Wiring Insulation – Helps with fire resistance and longevity.
Semiconductors – Used in certain manufacturing processes.
However, PFAS are under increasing regulatory scrutiny due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. The EU, under REACH, has proposed severe restrictions on PFAS, aiming to phase them out in most applications. Similarly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other global regulatory bodies are moving towards stricter controls.
The Impact of RoHS and REACH on Electronics Manufacturing
Both RoHS and REACH regulations significantly influence material selection, design processes, and supply chain management in the electronics industry. Key challenges and impacts include:
Material Substitutions: Engineers must identify and test alternative materials that comply with restrictions while maintaining performance and durability.
Supply Chain Management: Companies must work closely with suppliers to ensure component compliance, requiring robust documentation and traceability.
Product Testing & Certification: Compliance testing is crucial, as non-conformity can lead to fines, product recalls, and loss of market access.
Sustainability & Cost Management: While compliance fosters sustainability, it can also lead to increased costs due to material changes and certification processes.
How PFAS Restrictions Impact Electronics Manufacturing
The growing regulations on PFAS create challenges for electronics manufacturers, including:
Material Selection – Finding PFAS-free alternatives that maintain durability and performance.
Supply Chain Adjustments – Ensuring that suppliers provide components compliant with emerging PFAS restrictions.
Testing & Verification – Conducting chemical analysis to verify compliance with new regulations.
Despite these challenges, RoHS, REACH and PFAS compliance enhances product safety, reduces environmental impact, and provides a competitive edge in global markets.
How Circad Ensures RoHS and REACH Compliance
At Circad Design, compliance with RoHS, REACH and PFAS regulations is a core part of our manufacturing and design philosophy. We implement a structured approach to ensure that our clients receive fully compliant and high-quality products.
Rigorous Material Selection
We carefully source components and materials that meet RoHS, REACH and PFAS standards. Our design engineers select alternative materials that provide the same functionality while ensuring regulatory compliance.
Supplier Audits and Certification Checks
We work only with trusted suppliers who provide material declarations and compliance certificates. Our procurement team regularly audits suppliers to verify compliance and prevent supply chain risks.
Advanced Compliance Testing
Our quality control process includes in-depth RoHS testing using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis and REACH compliance assessments. This ensures that every component meets strict environmental and safety standards.
Transparent Documentation & Traceability
We maintain detailed compliance records, including Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), Certificates of Compliance (CoC), and Full Material Declarations (FMDs). This allows us to provide full traceability for our clients, ensuring they meet their own compliance obligations.
Ongoing Regulatory Monitoring
Regulations evolve over time, with new substances being added to restricted lists. At Circad, we continuously monitor regulatory updates to ensure our designs and manufacturing processes remain compliant.
Delivering Quality and Compliance to Clients
By integrating RoHS, REACH and PFAS compliance into our design and manufacturing processes, we help our clients achieve:
✅ Market Access – Our compliant products can be sold in the EU and other regulated markets without legal risks.
✅ Environmental Responsibility – Our approach reduces toxic waste and contributes to a greener supply chain.
✅ Product Reliability – High-quality material selection ensures product longevity and safety.
✅ Regulatory Confidence – Clients can rely on our expertise to navigate complex compliance requirements effortlessly.
At Circad, we don’t just design electronics—we build solutions that are safe, sustainable, and legally compliant. By partnering with us, clients gain peace of mind knowing their products are manufactured to the highest regulatory and quality standards.
View our Statements of Compliance with RoHS, REACH and PFAS.
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