The deadline for products to be compliant with the RoHS directive is fast approaching on July 1, 2006. The theory is it will eliminate six hazardous substances from electrical devices and help reduce harmful waste. We should all be in favor of this because, unless there are space aliens reading this, we all share the same planet.

But when it comes to RoHS with regards to relays, what are we really eliminating? Previous directives already mandate the removal of lead and mercury, so basically we’re talking about the removal of cadmium from contacts. However, a recent amendment (adopted October 21, 2005) to the RoHS directive gives an exemption for “cadmium and its compounds in electrical contacts…”

It’s equally disturbing that this directive requires virtually no proof for a company to claim compliance, as well as no standard symbol for products or packaging. Unless the product is put under a spectroscopic device to analyze its composition, any company can make the claim that its product is RoHS compliant.

IDEC takes the RoHS directive seriously and is committed to ensuring all its products comply. In fact, recently launched relay products already comply with the directive and work is actively proceeding to bring all other products into compliance.

Finally, it should be noted that while I am in favor of creating a more “green” planet, the present RoHS regulations, exemptions, and lack of traceability still need work.

Lanny Schuberg