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T-3
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 colour-generating layers of display
screens and the electrical or electronics components must not contain any
cadmium.
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 mercury is not 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 manufacture 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.
* Bio-accumulative is defined as substances which accumulate within
living organisms.
** Lead, Cadmium and Mercury are heavy metals which are
Bio-accumulative.