What Engineers Need to Know About the New RoHS and REACH Updates

As we make our way through 2025, significant updates to the EU’s RoHS and REACH regulations are impacting the electronics industry. These changes require immediate attention from design and compliance engineers to ensure continued market access and adherence to environmental standards.

RoHS 2025: Key Updates

Directive (EU) 2024/232
Effective January 30, 2024, this directive amends Directive 2011/65/EU by introducing an exemption for cadmium and lead in plastic profiles made from recovered rigid PVC used in electrical and electronic windows and doors. The exemption is valid until May 28, 2028. However, starting May 28, 2026, such recovered PVC must only be used in specified applications, and products containing ≥0.1% lead must be clearly labeled accordingly.

Exemption Renewal Deadlines
Manufacturers relying on RoHS exemptions expiring on December 31, 2026, must submit renewal applications by June 30, 2025. Failure to meet this deadline could result in the loss of exemption status, affecting product compliance.

REACH 2025: Significant Changes

Expansion of SVHC List
In January 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) added five new substances to the Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) list, bringing the total to 247. Manufacturers must assess their products for these substances and, if present above 0.1% w/w, fulfill notification obligations.

33rd SVHC Update Consultation
On February 28, 2025, ECHA initiated a public consultation for the 33rd update of the SVHC list, proposing the addition of three more substances. If approved, the list will expand to 250 substances by mid-2025.

Upcoming REACH Recast
A comprehensive overhaul of the REACH regulation is anticipated by the end of 2025. Key aspects include stricter controls on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), implementation of risk-based chemical assessments, and enhanced safety documentation requirements.

Action Items for Engineers

  • Material Compliance Audits: Review all components and materials against the updated RoHS and REACH lists to identify potential compliance issues.

  • Supply Chain Communication: Engage with suppliers to obtain updated declarations and ensure transparency regarding substance use.

  • Documentation Updates: Revise technical files, declarations of conformity, and labeling to reflect new regulatory requirements.

  • Exemption Management: Monitor exemption statuses and prepare renewal applications well before deadlines to maintain compliance.

Conclusion

Staying abreast of regulatory changes in RoHS and REACH is crucial for engineers involved in product design and compliance. Proactive measures, including thorough audits and supply chain collaboration, will ensure continued market access and adherence to environmental standards.

Sources:
https://www.reachsafetydatasheets.com/post/eu-reach-regulation-revision-key-changes-in-eu-chemical-regulations

https://www.tuvsud.com/en-us/e-ssentials-newsletter/consumer-products-and-retail-essentials/e-ssentials-2-2025/eu-reach-public-consultation-for-the-33rd-update-of-candidate-list-starts

https://www.z2data.com/insights/reach-adds-new-substances-to-its-svhc-list-january-2025

https://www.greensofttech.com/blog-2025-eu-rohs-exemption-renewals-published

https://blog.sourceintelligence.com/eu-rohs-compliance

Leave A Reply

Your email address will not be published.