With the recent implementation of the two European Unions’ directives: the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment directive (WEEE) and the directive on the Restriction on the Use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS), the regulations applying to the electronic and electrical industry has been considerably enhanced.
These directives highlight that actions need to be taken to remedy the impact of the unrestricted use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products.
Lead, mercury, cadmium and some other metals are indeed considered as threats to the health of people and the environment.
Beyond the regulatory constraints, manufacturers are also under the pressure of their customers who are more and more requiring compliance of the products they purchase.
It has already become a real business challenge: the slightest sign of a company ‘s disregard to comply with regulations could be a serious barrier for both.
The IECQ specification: the solution for the electronics industry
In this context the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has implemented the IECQ HSPM QC080000 specification for Hazardous Substance Process Management (HSPM). |
