Beware Of RoHS: Tremendous Change For European Electronics Sales
Andy LaFrazia, President

RoHS is a tremendous change for our industry. Anyone involved in the manufacture, distribution and sale of products containing electronics must be aware of RoHS. RoHS is the European Union (EU) Directive on Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This directive is focused on six hazardous materials(Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Hexavalent Cromium, Polybrominated Biphenyls & Polyborminated diphenyl ethers), with lead as the biggest impact item to the electronics industry. A Tin/Lead mixture for soldering components to circuit boards has been an industry standard for over 30 years. By July 2006, most products sold in Europe cannot contain more than trace amounts of the restricted materials. While compliance with RoHS is essential for products sold in Europe, everyone must be aware that similar rules have been established by Canada, Japan, China and many other countries. Also, many individual states (California, Massachusetts, and others) are initiating legislation to also restrict hazardous materials.

ControlTek has already experienced impact from RoHS in the area of material availability. Some manufacturers are ceasing production of components in the transition to RoHS compliant components. Parts that have been available for years are now being phased out and we are predicting an increase with this problem. Our personnel have been working hard to address issues affected by RoHS and implement or modify processes to meet this new challenge. We are ready to support our customer needs and want to make sure everyone understands the importance of this effort.