EEE (Electrical and Electronic Equipment)

Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) is defined in RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU Article 3(1) as equipment which is dependent on electric currents or electromagnetic fields in order to work properly and equipment for the generation, transfer and measurement of such currents and fields, and is designed for use with a voltage rating not exceeding 1000 V for alternating current and 1500 V for direct current. RoHS applies to EEE falling within the product categories in Annex I. Open scope (covering all EEE not explicitly excluded) applies since 22 July 2019 following the phased implementation under Directive 2011/65/EU.

Directive 2011/65/EU, Article 3(1) and Article 2.

EEE classification is the starting point for all RoHS compliance. Products that contain any electrical or electronic components must be assessed for their EEE status, even if the primary function is not electrical. Accessories and cables sold with EEE are typically assessed as part of the EEE. The open scope (from 2019) means that EEE not explicitly excluded by Article 2 of the Directive is subject to RoHS. When in doubt about whether a product is EEE, manufacturers should apply the precautionary principle and conduct a compliance assessment.