RoHS 3 (Directive (EU) 2015/863)

RoHS 3 is the informal designation for Directive (EU) 2015/863, which amended Annex II of Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS 2) to add four phthalate plasticisers to the list of restricted substances: DEHP, BBP, DBP, and DIBP. These substances were added following their identification as substances of very high concern (SVHC) under REACH and their subsequent restriction under Annex XVII of REACH. The four phthalates apply at a maximum concentration value of 0.1% (1000 ppm) per homogeneous material from July 22, 2019 for most EEE categories (July 22, 2021 for medical devices and monitoring/control instruments).

Directive (EU) 2015/863 (amending Annex II of Directive 2011/65/EU); Directive 2011/65/EU.

The addition of four phthalates significantly expanded RoHS compliance requirements for EEE with PVC-containing components. Manufacturers should verify that their legacy compliance programmes were updated to include phthalate screening and supplier declarations. Products produced before July 22, 2019 may have been compliant under the earlier RoHS 2 framework but need reassessment under RoHS 3. For medical devices and monitoring instruments, the July 22, 2021 date is the applicable restriction start.