Many in the electronics supply chain have been confused about how the Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances law (RoHS) in Europe will be enforced. As the story on page 30 notes, a European trade association has proposed that equipment introduced after the July 2006 deadline would have a presumption of conformance.

However, if European Union officials have reason to believe that equipment is noncompliant, they would review the manufacturer's RoHS documentation on the product, including a materials declaration, test and audit results. If officials are not satisfied with the documentation, they could test the product for hazardous materials.

The proposal would appear to be agreeable to many electronics OEMs. Documentation would be key to show compliance. Most electronics companies have been diligent in gathering materials declarations and test results to show that their equipment no longer contains lead or any of the other hazardous substances.

jcarbone@reedbusiness.com