The International Material Database System (IMDS) version 12.2 will be released on June 17, 2020, and will include a change in application codes. After June 17, application codes 8(g) and 14 will no longer be available for use.
DXC Technology, the creator of IMDS, provides routine software updates to remain up-to-date with current regulations to help suppliers in their compliance reporting. Application codes are typically consistent with specific End of Life Vehicles (ELV) directive exemptions.
When changes in the ELV directive exemptions are made, IMDS applications must be updated so suppliers can demonstrate accurate compliance to the directive using current exemptions. Since codes 8(g) and 14 relate to potentially hazardous substances, DXC has created replacements to enable more detailed reporting that is in line with the ELV directive.
Changes in Codes 8(g) and 14
The IMDS application code related to ELV exemption 8(g) — the exemption for lead in solders used for semi-conductor die and carrier — will be split into more detailed application codes. Vehicles contain an increasing number of electronics. Therefore, changes in the ELV directive exemption 8(g) is an effort to maintain consistency with the similar exemption 15(a) of the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive in electronics.
With Recommendation 19 being deactivated on July 1, it is beneficial for those in the electronics industry to be able to select the equivalent RoHS exemption as the IMDS Application/ELV exemption. Therefore, after June 17, these new expanded 8(g) exemptions will be available as IMDS applications for users to select.
The IMDS application code related to ELV exemption 14 concerning hexavalent chromium in motorcaravan absorption refrigerators will also be expanded. The change in this application is due to updates in the ELV directive exemption geared toward aligning ELV, RoHS and REACH authorization. Now, users will be required to select the relevant application based on their specific product.
For suppliers dealing with electronics, these changes in application codes will likely require resubmission. With new customer submissions, suppliers must obtain new data from sub-tier suppliers to reflect the new application codes. This will result in cascading requests and resubmissions throughout the supply chain. For existing Material Data Sheets (MDSs) the codes will still be valid and no warning will be issued.
Responsible Reporting with the Right Knowledge
IMDS often suggests application codes for components based on material classifications, but it is always up to the user to ensure that the correct application code is in use. For more information on these application code updates, contact us.
For further support with IMDS 12.2, explore our online trainings, which can equip your compliance team with all the expertise needed for IMDS reporting.
