In the European Union (EU), the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) 2002/95/EC came into force on July 1, 2006. The directive restricts the use of six hazardous materials in the manufacture of various types of electronic and electrical equipment. RoHS applies to these products in the EU whether made within the EU or imported. RoHS restricts the use of the following 6 substances:

1. Lead (Pb)
2. Mercury (Hg)
3. Cadmium (Cd)
4. Hexavalent Chromium (Cr-VI)
5. Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB)
6. Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE)