16TCO’99 cont.accumulative* processes. Flame retardants have been found in human blood and researchers fearthat disturbances in foetus development may occur.TCO’99 demand requires that plastic components weighing more than 25 grams must not containflame retardants with organically bound chlorine and bromine. Flame retardants are allowed inthe printed circuit boards since no substitutes are available.Lead**Lead can be found in picture tubes, display screens, solders and capacitors. Lead damages thenervous system and in higher doses, causes lead poisoning.TCO’99 requirement permits the inclusion of lead since no replacement has yet been developed.Cadmium**Cadmium is present in rechargeable batteries and in the colourgenerating layers of certaincomputer displays. Cadmium damages the nervous system and is toxic in high doses.TCO’99 requirement states that batteries, the colourgenerating layers of display screens and theelectrical or electronics components must not contain any cadmium.Mercury**Mercury is sometimes found in batteries, relays and switches, Mercury damages the nervous systemand is toxic in high doses.TCO’99 requirement states that batteries may not contain any Mercury. It also demands that nomercury is present in any of the electrical or electronics components associated with the display unit.CFCs (freons)CFCs (freons) are sometimes used for washing printed circuit boards. CFCs break down ozone andthereby damage the ozone layer in the stratosphere, causing increased reception on Earth ofultraviolet light with consequent increased risks of skin cancer (malignant melanoma).The relevant TCO’99 requirement; Neither CFCs nor HCFCs may be used during the manufacturingand assembly of the product or its packaging.*Bio-accumulative is defined as substances which accumulate within living organisms.**Lead, Cadmium and Mercury are heavy metals which are Bio-accumulative.To obtain complete information on the environmental criteria document, order from:TCO Development UnitSE-114 94 StockholmSWEDENFAX Number: +46 8 782 92 07E-mail (Internet): development@tco.seYou may also obtain current information on TCO’99 approved and labelled products byvisiting their website at: http://www.tco-info.com/78135061.wpc 8/16/99, 3:39 PM18