RoHS and REACH compliance

REACH Regulation (EC) 1907/2006

REACH Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 covers the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals with the objective of protecting human health and the environment by regulating chemicals and their safe use.  Restrictions result from risk-based assessment of detailed research into the impact of a Substance through its entire lifecycle.

All our products are in the scope of and fully compliant with the requirements of this Regulation.  Our policy is to provide products which do not contain Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) above the 0.1% weight threshold specified by REACH wherever possible.

BitBox uses compact lithium coin cell batteries in some equipment to run real-time functions.  These batteries, containing 1,2-dimethoxyethane – ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (EDGME), an SVHC, sealed within the case, are used for their long life and reliability characteristics.  The substance is essential to the reliable performance of the battery; there are currently no known alternatives, but we are actively monitoring battery technology developments to identify a suitable replacement.

EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU

EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU is a CE Mark Directive designed to reduce toxic electronic waste by prohibiting the use of specified hazardous substances above a defined level, unless a special Material Exemption exists. Originally limited to specific Categories of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), the scope of this Directive is expanding.  By July 2019 all EEE will be in scope unless specifically excluded.

We are actively working on compliance with the requirements of Delegated Directive (EU) 2015/863, adding 4 phthalates detailed in Annex II.

China RoHS

Known as Administrative Measure on the Control of Pollution Caused by Electronic Information Products.  The general requirement is for appropriate product marking and a Material Declaration where substances are present above the defined limits; these define the Environmentally Friendly Usage Period (EFUP), or safe working life under normal use, and indicate where the substances can be found to support safe recycling practices.

In support of our commitments and policies, we have a rigorous supplier selection process and work closely with our supply chain to ensure the compliance of all procured substances and articles against this and other relevant legislation.

Louise Randall

Managing Director, BitBox Ltd.