RoHS + WEEE
With regard to the scope of the RoHS Directive, what is the definition of large and small when dealing with household goods and are only products to be used by consumers in households covered by these groups?
There is no official distinction between large and small household goods but large appliances are more likely to be stationary in position such as refrigerators, cookers when used and small appliances tend to be worktop located or handheld in use such as food mixers, microwaves etc. In terms of use the categories do cover equipment for non household use.
Last updated: 2021-07-06 16:29
Is a RoHS compliant label acceptable to show compliance?
No. Since the RoHS recast 2011/65/EU RoHS compliance is now part of the CE conformity assessment process with the CE mark denoting RoHS compliance (as well as other compliances). Whilst it is permitted to have other labels showing RoHS compliance the only legal mark is the CE mark.
Last updated: 2021-07-06 16:31
Where can I get a copy of the crossed out wheelie bin logo that we can use on our Label printer?
You can find the logo in a variety of formats to download on our website at the following address:
https://shop.conformance.co.uk/hikashop-menu-for-module-98/category/free-logos
Last updated: 2021-07-06 16:33
What is the minimum size of product that needs a WEEE logo?
There is no defined minimum size. The relevant requirement is contained in EN 50419:2006 clause 4.3 which states:
"If the size or function of the product means that either of the markings defined in 4.1 b) cannot be applied on the product, then the marking shall be printed on the packaging, in the instructions for use and in the warranty of the electrical and electronic equipment."
Last updated: 2021-07-06 16:33
Do colour constraints exist for the wheelie bin logo, for either the colour of the logo or background?
There are no colour requirements for the logo. The only requirement (which comes from EN 50419:2006 ) is that "The marking shall be visible, legible and indelible”.
Last updated: 2021-07-06 16:34
I couldn't make much sense of the WEEE Directive. It seems that it is more addressed to the Member States than to manufacturers. Is there anything we need to do apart from subscribing to a "collective scheme" and applying the "don't throw in regular bin" symbol on the product?
The WEEE Directive is written such that Member States have to implement it into their national laws. It is not a single market directive so each Member State has some freedom as to how it is implemented nationally. In general the requirements are to join a suitable compliance scheme, paying the fees levied and to ensure that product is correctly marked.
Last updated: 2021-07-06 16:35
Can a thermocouple sold as a component be CE marked to indicate its compliance with the RoHS 2 Directive? For this instance no other Directive would apply. I understand that components do not need to be marked, and the the CE should not be used when it does not apply. I have customers requesting the CE mark and would like to do the right thing, whilst also providing what the customer wants.
Generally CE marking is intended for finished products and not components. As a thermocouple is likely to be incorporated into other electrical equipment it would be appropriate that it met the substance restricted levels.
Not CE marking would not stop you from issuing a Certificate of Conformity that the device contains none of the 10 substances banned under RoHS.
If you do CE mark, you will need to compile a technical file and issue a Declaration of Conformity.
Last updated: 2021-07-06 16:37
