RoHS Compliance Testing – METS Laboratories
RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance testing is a process used to verify that electronic and electrical products meet the requirements of the RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU). The directive restricts the use of 10 hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) to reduce environmental and health risks.
Restricted Substances Under RoHS
The RoHS Directive limits the following substances in homogeneous materials:
Substance | Maximum Allowable Concentration |
Lead (Pb) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
Cadmium (Cd) | 0.01% (100 ppm) |
Mercury (Hg) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
Hexavalent Chromium (Cr VI) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
Benzyl Butyl Phthalate (BBP) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
Diisobutyl Phthalate (DIBP) | 0.1% (1000 ppm) |
RoHS Testing Methods and Purpose
Testing is performed using advanced analytical techniques to detect restricted substances:
Testing Method | Purpose |
X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) | Screening for heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, Cr) |
Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP-OES/ICP-MS) | Quantitative analysis of metals |
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) | Detection of brominated flame retardants (PBB, PBDE) |
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) | Analysis of phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP) |
Wet Chemistry (UV-Vis, AAS) | Supplemental testing for specific elements |
- X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analysis
- Purpose: Screening for restricted metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, Cr, Br for PBBs/PBDEs).
- Types:
- Handheld XRF: Quick, non-destructive screening.
- Benchtop XRF: More precise than handheld.
- Limitations: Cannot detect chemical states (e.g., hexavalent chromium vs. trivalent chromium).
- Wet Chemical Analysis (for Hexavalent Chromium – Cr⁶⁺)
- Method: Extraction followed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry (EPA 3060A/7196A).
- Process: Samples are digested, and colorimetric testing determines Cr⁶⁺ levels.
- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
- Purpose: Detects brominated flame retardants (PBBs, PBDEs) and phthalates.
- Process: Solvent extraction followed by GC-MS separation and identification.
- Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Techniques
- ICP-OES (Optical Emission Spectroscopy): Quantitative metal analysis (Pb, Cd, Hg, etc.).
- ICP-MS (Mass Spectrometry): Ultra-trace detection of metals.
- Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)
- Purpose: Identifies organic compounds, including some restricted substances (used as a supplementary method).
- Thermal Desorption-Gas Chromatography (TD-GC/MS)
- Purpose: Detects volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds, including some restricted additives.
- High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
- Purpose: Used for phthalate analysis (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP).
Steps in RoHS Compliance Testing
- Product Assessment – Identify materials and components for testing.
- Sample Preparation – Homogenize and prepare samples for analysis.
- Initial Screening (XRF) – Quick check for restricted metals.
- Lab Verification (ICP, GC-MS, HPLC) – Confirm exact concentrations.
- Documentation & Certification – Issue a RoHS Compliance Certificate if the product passes.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Fines & penalties (varies by country).
- Product recalls & market bans.
- Reputation damage & legal liability.
RoHS Testing Standards
- IEC 62321 – Standard methods for RoHS compliance testing.
- EN 14372 – For phthalates in toys (sometimes referenced).
- EPA 3050B/3052 – Acid digestion for metals.
- ISO 3613 – Hexavalent chromium testing.
Testing Workflow for RoHS Compliance
Homogenization, cutting, or grinding.
Quick check for metals and bromine.
If XRF indicates high levels, wet chemistry or GC-MS/ICP is used.
GC-MS or HPLC for organic restricted substances.
Chemical spot test or UV-Vis spectrophotometry.
Compare results against RoHS limits (e.g., 1000 ppm for Pb, Cd, Hg, Cr⁶⁺, 1000 ppm for PBDEs/PBBs, and 1000 ppm for phthalates).
What METS Laboratories Offers?
NABL accredited, METS LABORTORIES INDIA PVT.LTD can test to a variety of the established methods (e.g., ISO, ASTMD, AOAC, APHA, FSSAI, BIS,)
- Our laboratory conducts testing on a wide range of products, materials, and components to verify compliance with standards, specifications, and regulatory requirements. Our team is happy to provide expert advice and guidance to ensure the appropriate water testing is carried out for your needs.
- Our dedicated, experienced, and friendly team is here to help—providing expert knowledge, guidance, and access to cutting-edge water testing capabilities and technologies in our laboratory.
- We conduct comprehensive product evaluations for appearance, quality, and performance. Our technical support network provides expert guidance—answering questions, interpreting results, and assisting with quality assurance program management.
- We participate in inter-laboratory proficiency testing and comparative analyses to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with industry standards.
- We implement and maintain rigorous ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation, ensuring internationally recognized standards for testing competence, measurement accuracy, and operational excellence in every analysis.
- We maintain strict customer confidentiality by treating all data as proprietary information.
- AccreditedISO/IEC 17025:2017 compliant services
- End-to-end environmental monitoring and sampling
- Customized test plans for industry, agriculture, urban planning, and residential safety
- Advanced instrumentation: GC-MS, ICP-OES, AAS, HPLC, FTIR, etc.
- On-site sampling by trained professionals
- Digital reports with compliance interpretation
- Emergency testing and quick-turnaround options
Beyond numbers, we offer peace of mind by delivering science you can trust and reports you can act on.
What We Ensure?
- Data Integrity: Every result is generated and verified under strict quality assurance.
- Compliance: All tests conform to the latest regulatory and industry-specific guidelines.
- Transparency: Clear, easy-to-understand reports and consultation support.
- Confidentiality: Your data remains secure, private, and protected.
- Environmental Stewardship: Our labs follow eco-friendly practices and aim to minimize testing-related waste and emissions.
Who It’s For?
- Manufacturers, importers, and distributors of EEE products (e.g., electronics, cables, circuit boards, batteries).
- Industrial Facilities: To monitor effluents, emissions, and workplace safety
- Construction and Real Estate: For soil contamination, water logging, and indoor air quality
- Municipal Corporations: To assess urban air and water quality
- Schools, Hospitals & Hotels: For ensuring safe indoor environments
- Agricultural Communities: To test irrigation water and soil health
- NGOs & Research Institutions: For pollution studies and policy advocacy
- Citizens & RWAs: For local monitoring and complaint-based testing
Protect Consumers. Satisfy Authorities. Boost Market Confidence.
In today’s sustainability-driven world, businesses are held accountable by customers, investors, and regulators alike. METS Laboratories empowers you to:
• Protect your workforce and surrounding communities
• Achieve compliance with CPCB, SPCB, MoEF&CC, WHO, and ISO standards
• Build a reputation as an environmentally responsible brand
• Avoid costly penalties and legal action due to non-compliance
• Earn stakeholder trust with verified environmental claims and ESG reporting
Environmental testing isn’t just a legal formality—it’s a strategic asset.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a test?
You can contact METS Laboratories via phone, email, or our website to schedule sampling or drop off a sample at our facility.
Is your lab accredited?
Yes, METS Laboratories is accredited under ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
How long does it take to get results?
Turnaround time depends on the parameters, but standard reports are typically delivered within 3–7 working days.
Do you provide on-site sampling?
Yes, we have trained field teams who follow strict SOPs for on-site sample collection.
Can I get help understanding the report?
Absolutely. We offer report interpretation and guidance on corrective actions or next steps.
What locations do you serve?
We serve clients across India and can coordinate with international partners when required.
Can you help with regulatory approvals?
Yes, our test reports are accepted by government authorities, and we can assist in documentation for environmental clearances.
