European Union : FAQ

Large-scale stationary industrial tools do not come within the scope of the directive, and it is therefore important to understand clearly what is covered by this expression.

A large-scale stationary industrial tool is a machine or system consisting of a combination of finished products and/or components, each of which is designed to be used only in fixed industrial applications; its installation is performed by professionals, in a given place, within a set of machinery or in an industrial building to perform a specific task.

The products incorporated under these conditions are not subject to the RoHS directive except if they come within the scope of the Directive and can also be used as an autonomous function. It is important to distinguish between large-scale stationary industrial tools and small tools that are finished products, having a direct function, sold in the market as a commercial unit, usable anywhere, and powered from a general-purpose power outlet. For example, a portable electric drill must be in compliance, whereas a machine tool designed for a specific workshop will be considered as a stationary industrial tool and will therefore be outside the scope of the directive.