RoHS (pronounced rohas), or The Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, was implemented in the European Union in 2006. It is a standard that limits the use of six hazardous materials in the manufacture of various types of electronic and electrical equipment. Now, many manufacturers have adopted this standard in the United States. Although there are a great many more substances that critics say need to be eliminated, the standard is a good start to altering manufacturing standards to make products healthier for homes and for disposal.

By restricting these toxic materials in products, several purposes are served. We are safer in our own homes, because we reduce exposure to toxins. Workers who construct and dispose of them also reduce their exposure. Finally, nature and our environment are more protected when these products are thrown away into landfills.

The materials that are limited are:

• Lead (Pb)
• Mercury (Hg)
• Cadmium (Cd)
• Hexavalent chromium (Cr6+)
• Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB)
• Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE)

RoHS helps reduce damage to people and the environment in developing countries where much of today's "high-tech trash" ends up. The use of lead-free solders and components has provided immediate health benefits to electronics industry workers in prototype and manufacturing operations.

Many of today's consumer electronics are now RoHS compliant, examples include Apple's iPod, Dell and HP computers, and Nintendo's Wii.

We carry a number of RoHS certified vacuum cleaners and air purifiers:

Miele vacuum cleaners
SEBO vacuum cleaners
IQAir Air Purifiers
Blueair air purifiers
Austin Air air purifiers – They have met all requirements and applied for their certification, it is currently pending.

By using RoHS certified products you contribute to a safer home and a safer world.