All of our watches have passed ROHS and REACH tests.
What is ROHS?
ROHS, or the Restriction of Hazardous Substances, is an EU directive that limits the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Its purpose is to safeguard human health and the environment by minimizing the risks posed by these substances commonly found in electronic products. The directive was introduced in 2002 and has undergone revisions, with the latest version being ROHS 3, effective since July 22, 2019. The six restricted substances are lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers. Manufacturers and suppliers of EEE must ensure compliance with ROHS before selling their products in the EU. Compliance involves testing and providing documentation to confirm that the restricted substances are within the allowed limits. The impact of ROHS extends globally as many manufacturers have embraced its principles and restricted hazardous substances not only for EU markets but also in products sold worldwide.
What is REACH?
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) is an EU regulation that aims to protect human health and the environment by addressing the production, import, and use of chemicals. It came into effect in 2007 and is a comprehensive chemical regulation.
The main objectives of REACH are registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals. Manufacturers and importers must register substances produced or imported in quantities of one ton or more per year, providing information on their properties and safe handling. Authorities evaluate registered substances and may request additional data. Substances of very high concern (SVHC) may require authorization, with the aim of replacing them with safer alternatives. REACH enables the restriction of hazardous substances, limiting their manufacturing, market placement, or use.
REACH applies to all chemical substances produced or imported into the EU, across various applications. It places responsibility on manufacturers, importers, and downstream users to ensure safe chemical use and provide information on properties and risks.
REACH has had a significant impact on the chemical industry, promoting the use of safer alternatives, improving understanding of chemical properties and risks, and enhancing protection for human health and the environment.