Differences between RoHS 1, RoHS 2, and RoHS 3

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In July 2020, Nikon Corporation discovered that the content of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) in its Nikon F6 film cameras exceeded the level allowed by the EU RoHS Directive and had to recall about 150 units of the product.

Importers of electrical and electronic products into the EU are generally aware of the RoHS Directive. What some people don't know is that the directive has been amended twice. If Nikon had manufactured the Nikon F6 film camera in 2007, it would not have fallen foul of the RoHS Directive.

This article explains some of the key information you need to know about the EU RoHS Directive, including the differences between RoHS 1 vs. RoHS 2 vs. RoHS 3.

What is RoHS?

RoHS is the abbreviation of "Restriction of Hazardous Substances", which is a directive applicable to electrical and electronic equipment sold in the European market. The purpose of this directive is to reduce the impact of electronic products on the environment and health.

Below are the ten restricted substances and their acceptable limits under RoHS.