China: New version of the Chinese RoHS standard GB/T 26572-2011

 

China has published a draft new version of the Chinese RoHS standard GB/T 26572-2011: National Standard of the P.R.C., Requirements for restricted use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products.

This document specifies the limit requirements, labeling requirements and conformity assessment requirements for hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products. This document applies to electrical and electronic products produced, sold, and imported within the territory of the People’s Republic of China.

The published document is a revised version of GB/T 26572-2011 and its amendments. The main revisions are as follows:

a) Added: “Environmentally friendly use period”, “Management catalogue of hazardous substances restricted use in electrical and electronic products” and “Application exceptions” Three definitions of terms (see 3.6, 3.7 and 3.8);

b) Added classification management requirements for hazardous substances restricted use in electrical and electronic products (see Chapter 4);

c) Added labeling requirements for hazardous substances restricted use in electrical and electronic products (see Chapter 6);

d) Added relevant requirements for declaration of compliance for hazardous substances restricted use in electrical and electronic products (see Chapter 7);

e) Added relevant requirements for inspection rules (see Chapter 8).

 

The revised standard is a part of the China RoHS regulatory landscape.

The China Restriction of Hazardous Substances (China RoHS) is a regulatory framework established by the Chinese government to control the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products (EEP). Modeled after the European Union’s RoHS Directive, China RoHS aims to reduce environmental pollution, promote sustainable development, and enhance consumer safety.

Origin and Development

The regulation was first introduced in 2006 under the Management Methods for the Restriction of the Use of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Products. It underwent significant revisions with the release of China RoHS 2 in 2016, which expanded its scope and aligned it more closely with global standards.

Key Features of China RoHS

1. Scope of Products:
   China RoHS applies to a broad range of electrical and electronic products, including consumer electronics, telecommunications devices, home appliances, and industrial equipment. The regulation specifically covers products listed in a published Catalog for Priority Control (updated periodically).
2. Restricted Substances:
   China RoHS limits the use of the following six hazardous substances:
   • Lead (Pb)
   • Mercury (Hg)
   • Cadmium (Cd)
   • Hexavalent Chromium (Cr⁶⁺)
   • Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs)
   • Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

These substances are restricted due to their potential to harm human health and the environment during production, use, and disposal.

1. Labelling and Disclosure Requirements:
   Manufacturers are required to label products containing hazardous substances with:
   • Environmental Protection Use Period (EPUP): The time frame during which the product does not pose environmental harm under normal use.
   • Hazardous Substances Table: A declaration of whether the product contains any restricted substances above permissible limits.

Labels must be displayed prominently on products and accompanying documentation to inform consumers about their environmental impact.

1. Conformity Assessment System:
   To ensure compliance, China RoHS mandates two pathways:
   • Self-Declaration: Manufacturers declare compliance based on internal testing.
   • Third-Party Certification: Products are tested and certified by authorized laboratories.
2. Priority Control Catalog:
   Products listed in the catalog must comply with additional requirements, such as mandatory testing and certification. The catalog is periodically updated to include new product categories and technical specifications.
3. Enforcement and Penalties:
   Non-compliance with China RoHS can result in penalties, including fines, product recalls, or restrictions on sales in the Chinese market.

Differences Between China RoHS and EU RoHS

While China RoHS is inspired by the EU’s RoHS Directive, there are notable differences:

• Focus on Information Disclosure: China RoHS emphasizes the labelling and disclosure of hazardous substances rather than outright restrictions for all products.
• Implementation Phases: Compliance requirements apply progressively based on the Priority Control Catalog.
• Conformity Assessment: China RoHS mandates specific testing and certification methods that differ from EU standards.

Challenges and Opportunities

1. Challenges for Manufacturers:
   • Navigating the complex labelling and certification requirements.
   • Ensuring compatibility with frequent updates to the Priority Control Catalog.
   • Balancing compliance with China RoHS alongside other regional regulations.
2. Opportunities:
   • Alignment with China RoHS demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, improving brand reputation in a highly competitive market.
   • Enhancing product design and material selection to meet global environmental standards can open new market opportunities.

To find out more about China RoHS and product and material compliance in China, please do not hesitate to contact the Product Compliance Institute.