(ECCB: Midland, TX) -- Between RoHS, WEEE, ELV, Battery and Packaging Directives, China RoHS and others, many countries have enacted regulations on the restriction and management of hazardous substances in consumer products. They are real and they are here to stay. Even the United States is preparing federal level RoHS requirements that are expected to be implemented in July 1, 2010.  (On May 14, 2009, Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX) introduced H.R. 2420).

Is your company prepared for these requirements?

Do your supply chain management engineers specify IECQ HSPM QC 080000 compliance?

Do your buyers ask your suppliers for a copy of their IECQ HSPM QC 080000 certificate?

Are you aware of the penalties for noncompliance in other countries?

• In the United Kindom, the law states that a producer is liable and failure to meet the requirement can result in unlimited fines and jail for senior executives. They also reserve the right to take action on the producers supply chain regardless of how far down the chain they may be.

• In Ireland, the law allows up to 10 years in jail for senior executives of the company and fines of up to $15,000,000.

• In China, the producer can lose all access to the China market as well as facing fines.

 …