How to apply for EU ROHS testing for headphones
Date：2025-09-15 10:04:09 Classification
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The RoHS Directive is a mandatory standard established by EU legislation, specifically the "Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment." The complete EU RoHS testing process and key points for headphones are compiled based on EU directive requirements and laboratory operating procedures:
I. Pre-Test Preparation
1. Material Grouping
- Separate samples by material/color (e.g., plastic casings, silicone earbuds, metal components, circuit boards, and packaging materials must be tested separately).
- Key Documents:
- Product Manual and Technical Specifications (including Material List)
- Key Component List (e.g., battery and cable supplier information)
- Copy of the manufacturer's business license
2. Material Compliance Pre-Inspection
- Prefer lead-free solder and food-grade silicone (phthalate content ≤ 0.1%).
- Avoid the use of cadmium-containing pigments (limit ≤ 0.01%) or hexavalent chromium coatings (limit ≤ 0.1%).
II. Testing Process and Standards
1. Selecting an Accredited Laboratory
- Must be a CPSC-accredited organization with ISO 17025 certification (such as Dezewei Testing).
- Testing Turnaround: Regular 5-7 days, expedited to 3 days (30% fee increase).
2. Hazardous Substance Testing Items
| Restricted Substances | Limits (Weight Percentage) | Commonly Exceeded Components
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 0.1% | Solder Joints, Metal Alloys
| Cadmium (Cd) | ≤0.01% | Pigments, Batteries
| Phthalates | ≤0.1% | PVC Wire, Soft Earplugs
| Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers | ≤0.1% | Flame Retardants for Circuit Boards
*Note: Starting in 2025, a new requirement for cobalt (Co) of ≤0.002% will be added (applicable to metal components).
3. Supplementary Testing for Special Headphones
- Bluetooth Headphones: Must comply with the RED Directive (Radio Frequency Spectrum Compliance)
- Models with Batteries: Lithium batteries must pass UN38.3 safety testing.
III. Document Generation and Submission
1. Core Document List
- RoHS Test Report: Contains test data for all 10 substances and laboratory stamp
- Declaration of Conformity (DoC): Drafted by the manufacturer, declaring compliance with Directive 2011/65/EU
- Technical File: Contains design drawings, risk assessment, and supply chain material certification
2. Labeling Specifications
- Product Packaging and Printing:
- CE Mark (Height ≥ 5mm)
- "RoHS Compliant"
- Manufacturer's EU Address
IV. Common Causes of Failure and Pitfall Avoidance Guide
| Problem Type | Typical Cases
| Chemical Exceedance | DEHP Exceedance in Silicone Earbuds (Cheap Plasticizer)
| Incomplete Documentation | Missing Battery Supplier MSDS Report
| Incorrect Sample Grouping | Mixed Testing of Plastic Cases of Different Colors
V. Cost and Timeframe Reference
- Basic Fee: 1,000-3,000 RMB (Routine Testing of Wired Headphones)
- Expedited Fee: 30%-50% Increase (Report Issued within 3 Days)
- Additional Costs:
- Bluetooth Module RED Certification: Approximately 2,000 RMB
- Battery Safety Testing (UN38.3): Approximately 1,500 RMB
Shen Gongwang Security: 44030602006947