Jun 9 - Australian Manufacturers Preparing for RoHS Independent of Gov't Enforcement
Australian online publisher Ferret.com.au reports that many Australian electronics manufacturers are making all of the necessary arrangements and changes to their processes in order to ensure they can provide RoHS compliant parts for their customer who market in the EU. Despite the fact the Australian government has yet to enforce RoHS policies of their own, some companies are trying to stay ahead of the RoHS curve. However, a portion of manufacturers are sitting back and waiting to make the change: they anticipate faulty products and hiccups along the way and want to learn from others’ mistakes first.
AS the 1 July deadline for the European Union’s Reduction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) rapidly approaches, Australian contract manufacturers are working hard to make sure they have the necessary processes and equipment in place for customers who need compliant products. But there are still lessons that need to be learnt – with technology and heeding advice.
Andrew Greatbatch, vice president of corporate development for GPC Electronics, said electronics manufacturing services (EMS) providers need to consider the new manufacturing processes and documentation requirements imposed on their customers by the new laws.
“EMS providers need to be well versed in RoHS laws so that they can assure their customers and European regulators of compliance,” he said.
Effective Jan 1, 2007, manufacturers of covered electronics under SB 20 will be required to follow similar RoHS provisions. CAW is currently sponsoring AB 2202 (Saldana), which will expand California’s current phase out provision to virtually all electronic devices. AB 2202 is tentatively scheduled to be heard next in the Senate Environmental Quality Committee on June 19th at 1:30.
What you can do:
• Send an e-mail to your Legislator asking for his/her support on this measure
• Send an AB 2202 support letter on behalf of your organization