Uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the new Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) and Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations is reducing competitiveness and driving corporations to move production offshore.

The European Commission has failed to specify which products are covered by the linked regulations. This has resulted in a lack of consistency across Europe, with deadlines missed and no recycling infrastructure in the UK.

Speaking at the BEAMA Installation annual luncheon, Mike Southgate, managing director of MK Electric, said: “This has left the industry with many grey areas and has caused a great deal of confusion amongst national governments, trade bodies, manufacturers, specifiers, contractors, wholesalers, retailers and end users.”

The London Chamber of Commerce has estimated that the number of regulations affecting UK business has increased by 40% since 2000.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor