Lead Solder

A harmonised classification for lead was agreed and published in 2016 [Regulation (EU) 2016/1179] and this came into effect on 1 March 2018.

As a consequence, the sale of solder with metallic lead or mixtures containing lead (at greater than or equal to 0.3%) to the general public is prohibited [Article 67 of REACH; & Restriction 30 in Annex XVII].

Such products can still be supplied to professional users. However, it should be noted that the restriction also requires that the products be marked visibly, legibly and indelibly as: ‘Restricted to professional users.’

As a result lead-based solder is strictly limited at Rapid for purchase online by credit account holders. Schools with a credit account will in this context be regarded as professional users. Customers will need to be logged in to our website via their business account, or quote their account number if ordering offline, to enable to proceed with an order.