SASO RoHS: Achieving Compliance with Saudi Arabia's RoHS Regulation

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has intensified its efforts to protect the environment and ensure public safety. As part of these initiatives, the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organisation (SASO) introduced the Technical Regulation RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment), which imposes mandatory controls on electrical and electronic equipment sold in the Kingdom. In this article, we will explore the SASO RoHS program, its key provisions, enforcement stages, and essential steps to achieve compliance.

The SASO RoHS Program: An Overview of Saudi RoHS

The SASO RoHS, launched in January 2021, aligns with the European Union RoHS Directive and aims to restrict the usage of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. It identifies six substances subject to restriction levels similar to the EU RoHS requirements. These substances include:

Compliance with SASO RoHS requires a conformity assessment and Certification process based on meeting IEC Standards, specifically IEC 63000, and the requirements of the standard.

SASO RoHS Exemptions: Understanding the Scope

The SASO RoHS technical regulation applies to various categories of electrical and electronic equipment, including spare parts. Enforcement of this regulation will be implemented in stages for different product categories, with specific dates for compliance:

• Small-scale household electrical appliances – 4th July 2022
• Large-scale household electrical appliances – 2nd October 2022
• Information and communication technology equipment – 31st December 2022
• Lighting equipment – 31st March 2023
• Electrical and electronic tools and equipment – 29th June 2023
• Games, entertainment, and sports equipment – 27th September 2023
• Control and monitoring instruments – 26th December 2023

While the SASO RoHS program encompasses a wide range of products, it's essential to be aware of specific exemptions.

• The regulation does not apply to substances that are already excluded based on Hazardous Materials Limits in Annex (1-A).
• Medical equipment is exempt from the regulation.
• Military weapons and equipment are not covered by the regulation.
• Equipment designed for use in space missions is excluded from the regulation's scope.
• Large-scale stationary industrial tools are exempt.
• Large-scale fixed installations are not subject to the regulation.
• Some control and monitoring instruments listed in Annex (1-B) are excluded from compliance with SASO RoHS.

Saudi RoHS Regulation: How to Meet SASO ROHS Compliance?

To ensure compliance with the SASO RoHS program, businesses must undertake several important steps. Here's a comprehensive guide:

Use Saudi Recognized Standards:

• IEC 63000: Technical documentation for the assessment of electrical and electronic products.
• SASO IEC 62321: Determination of levels of six regulated substances.
• IEC 62474: Material declaration for electrotechnical industry products.
• SASO IEC TR 62476: Guidance for evaluating substance-use restrictions.

Conformity Assessment Procedures:

• Prepare a Saudi Arabia RoHS Declaration of Conformity.
• Compile a Technical File containing necessary documents like design drawings, test reports, and evidence of compliance.
• Seek assessment from a recognized notified body from SASO, which will issue a Certificate of Compliance.

Building a Technical File:

• Declaration of Conformity (DoC): Include a Supplier Declaration of Conformity for each product, following the blank form in Annex 4 of the Saudi RoHS regulation.
• Risk Assessment Document: Conduct a Risk Assessment and include associated documentation.
• Product Use and Safety Documents: Include all necessary documents related to product use and safety, such as warnings, cautions, and manuals.

The Benefits of Complying with Hazard Substances Regulations

Ensuring compliance with the SASO RoHS program offers numerous advantages for businesses:

• Market Access: Compliance enables businesses to export their electrical and electronic products to the Saudi Arabian market, tapping into new opportunities.

• Environmental Conservation: By restricting hazardous substances, businesses contribute to environmental protection, sustainability, and the well-being of consumers.

• Public Safety: Compliance ensures that electrical and electronic products meet safety standards, reducing potential risks to users.

• Competitive Edge: Compliance with environmental regulations enhances a company's reputation, installs consumer confidence, and provides a competitive advantage in the market.

The introduction of the SASO RoHS regulation in Saudi Arabia underscores the government's commitment to environmental conservation and public safety. Compliance with this regulation through a conformity assessment and Certification process based on IEC Standards is crucial for businesses operating in the Saudi Arabian market. By understanding the Saudi RoHS regulation, exemptions, compliance procedures, and deadlines, businesses can navigate the market successfully while prioritizing sustainability and public safety.