Last updated on January 28th, 2026 at 12:01 pm
RoHS are the initials for Restriction of Hazardous Substances. Its formal name—the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive 2002/95/EC—refers to a compliance directive adopted by the European Union (EU) in February 2003. The directive restricts the use of specific hazardous materials in the manufacture of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).
The goal is twofold: to reduce the potential health risks associated with hazardous substances during manufacturing, use, and disposal, and to prevent long-term environmental damage caused by toxic waste entering landfills. By limiting these substances at the source, RoHS promotes safer products, cleaner recycling processes, and a healthier environment overall.
Overview of the RoHS Directive
The RoHS directive applies to any company that manufactures, sells, or distributes EEE products, parts, or components into EU member states. This includes finished products as well as individual components such as cabling, sub-assemblies, connectors, heatsinks, and surface finishes—including metal plating, anodizing, and chromating.
The directive also affects intermediary wholesalers and suppliers selling to resellers, distributors, or integrators operating within the EU. Even manufacturers based outside of Europe may be required to comply if their products are incorporated into EEE sold in regulated markets.
Global Reach of RoHS Regulations
Although RoHS originated in the EU, similar regulations have been adopted worldwide. Many manufacturers must now comply with these standards regardless of where their products are produced.
In the United States, this type of legislation has been adopted in several states, including:
- California
- New Jersey
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Minnesota
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Wisconsin
Internationally, countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea have implemented comparable restrictions. As a result, RoHS compliance has become a de facto global requirement for manufacturers serving electronics markets worldwide.
Restricted Substances Under RoHS
When first enacted, the RoHS directive restricted six hazardous substances commonly used in electronics manufacturing. The directive has since been expanded to include additional product categories and substances.
Compliant products must not exceed maximum allowable concentrations of the following restricted materials:
- Lead (Pb)
- Mercury (Hg)
- Cadmium (Cd)
- Hexavalent Chromium (Cr⁶⁺)
- Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB)
- Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE)
- Phthalates: DEHP, BBP, DBP, and DIBP
While limited exemptions exist for certain applications, the directive continues to evolve as new research identifies additional risks associated with hazardous materials.
Why RoHS Compliance Matters
RoHS was enacted in response to the long-term health and environmental risks posed by hazardous substances used in electronics manufacturing. Prolonged exposure to these materials has been linked to serious health conditions, including cancer and neurological damage.
By restricting these substances, RoHS helps:
- Protect workers involved in manufacturing and recycling
- Improve consumer safety
- Reduce environmental contamination
- Encourage cleaner, more sustainable manufacturing practices
The impact of RoHS is evident across numerous industries, affecting products such as household appliances, computers, consumer electronics, lighting, power tools, toys, sports equipment, and automated machines, such as vending and ATM systems.
Why Choose M.M. Newman Corporation?
When RoHS compliance is critical, partnering with an experienced and dependable manufacturer makes all the difference.
- Verified RoHS Compliance: Our products meet RoHS requirements, helping customers maintain regulatory compliance worldwide.
- Trusted Manufacturing Expertise: With decades of experience, we understand the regulatory requirements for EEE components and materials.
- Consistent Quality and Documentation: Our processes ensure reliable materials, traceability, and confidence throughout the supply chain.
- Customer-Focused Solutions: We work closely with customers to provide compliant products that meet performance, durability, and application-specific needs.
M.M. Newman Corporation’s Commitment to RoHS Compliance
Because M.M. Newman Corporation manufactures products used in electrical and electronic equipment, we recognize the importance of strict adherence to RoHS directives. We believe RoHS compliance is essential to ensuring safer products for employees, customers, and recycling partners alike.
We proudly confirm that M.M. Newman Corporation’s Heli-Tube® spiral wrap is fully RoHS-compliant, meeting the requirements of customers in the EU and those serving RoHS-regulated markets worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does RoHS compliance mean for manufacturers?
RoHS compliance means ensuring restricted substances do not exceed allowable limits in EEE products or components. Manufacturers must control materials, processes, and supplier inputs to meet these requirements.
Does RoHS apply only to products sold in Europe?
No. While RoHS originated in the EU, many U.S. states and countries worldwide have adopted similar regulations. Products sold globally often need to meet RoHS standards regardless of destination.
Are all M.M. Newman Corporation products RoHS compliant?
M.M. Newman Corporation’s Heli-Tube® spiral wrap is fully RoHS compliant. Customers with specific compliance questions are encouraged to contact our team for detailed product information.
How does RoHS compliance benefit end users?
RoHS compliance helps ensure safer products, reduces environmental impact, and supports responsible recycling and disposal practices.
Partner with a RoHS-Compliant Manufacturer You Can Trust
RoHS compliance is no longer optional for companies operating in global electronics markets—it is a critical requirement for safety, sustainability, and regulatory confidence. By choosing RoHS-compliant materials and partners, manufacturers can protect their customers, their workforce, and the environment while maintaining access to international markets.
Looking for RoHS-compliant spiral wrap solutions? Contact M.M. Newman Corporation today to learn more about our Heli-Tube® products and how we support compliance across the electrical and electronic equipment industry.