The relevant TCO’99 demand requires that plastic components weighing more than 25 grams must not contain flame retardants with organically bound bromine or chlorine. Flame retardants are allowed in the printed circuit boards since no substitutes are available.
Cadmium**
Cadmium is present in rechargeable batteries and in the colour- generating layers of certain computer displays. Cadmium damages the nervous system and is toxic in high doses. The relevant TCO‘99 requirement states that batteries, the
Mercury**
Mercury is sometimes found in batteries, relays and switches. It damages the nervous system and is toxic in high doses. The relevant TCO‘99 requirement states that batteries may not contain any Mercury. It also demands that no mercury is present in any of the electrical or electronics components associated with the labelled unit.
CFCs (freons)
The relevant TCO‘99 requirement states that neither CFCs nor HCFCs may be used during the manufacturing and assembly of the product. CFCs (freons) are sometimes used for washing printed circuit boards. CFCs break down ozone and thereby damage the ozone layer in the stratosphere, causing increased reception on Earth of ultraviolet light with e. g. increased risks of skin cancer (malignant melanoma) as a consequence.
Lead**
Lead can be found in picture tubes, display screens, solders and capacitors. Lead damages the nervous system and in higher doses, causes lead poisoning. The relevant TCO‘99 requirement permits the inclusion of lead since no replacement has yet been developed.
**Lead, Cadmium and Mercury are heavy metals which are