Manufacturers are under constant pressure to produce safe, environmentally friendly products. Following the European Union’s recent directives such as Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS), it’s clear that the electronics industry is expected to take a higher level of responsibility on environmental protection and clean up its act. The slightest sign of a company’s disregard or failure to comply with regulations can result in steep fines, bad publicity and possible closure. Already, buyers are asking suppliers to provide proof of their product’s compliance upfront, while manufacturers are limiting or stopping the use of hazardous materials and responsibly dealing with e-waste. Failure not to could be the beginning of the end for your business. Therefore, now is the time to act and safeguard yourself against the imminent risks your products may pose to others and the environment.

Consistent with the growing demand of environmentally friendly electronic products, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has introduced the IECQ HSPM QC 080000 standard for Hazardous Substance Process Management (HSPM).

The IECQ HSPM provides a framework for the management of hazardous substance control. Organisations applying for certification need to adopt the measures outlined, and remain in accordance with its framework. The standard itself, defines the requirements for establishing processes that identify and control any introduction of hazardous substances into your products. For your business, it’s a great chance to prove environmental responsibility, meet WEEE/RoHS requirements, and satisfy customer demands.