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2026 Ban on Lamp-Based Projectors: What Schools and Businesses Need to Know

Starting 1 January 2026, lamp-based projectors and their replacement bulbs will no longer be available for purchase or manufacture across the EU and UK. This significant regulatory change will affect all educational and business environments still using this outdated technology.

At PWD Supplies, we’re here to help organisations plan ahead and transition to safer, more efficient display solutions—before the deadline creates disruption.

Why Are Lamp-Based Projectors Being Banned?

The central issue is mercury—a highly toxic substance that poses serious health and environmental risks. Even small amounts can damage the brain, kidneys, lungs, and immune system. Lamp-based projectors rely on bulbs containing mercury, which is why they’re being phased out under new legislation.

This move is part of the broader effort by the EU and UK to eliminate hazardous materials from everyday technology. These restrictions are enforced through the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Regulations 2012, which aim to limit the use of substances like mercury in electrical and electronic equipment.

Regulatory Background: What’s Changing?

The UK government has updated RoHS regulations to further tighten control over mercury use in electronics:

  • Revocation of Exemptions: Exemptions for mercury in certain lighting products (e.g. double-capped linear fluorescent lamps) expired on 1 February 2024.
  • Projector Exemption Extension: The exemption for mercury in high-pressure mercury vapour lamps used in projectors over 2000 lumen ANSI has been extended, but only until 24 February 2027—giving limited extra time for some use cases.
  • Consultation Ongoing: DEFRA recently held a consultation on whether to continue exemptions for specialist equipment like entertainment lighting and simulators.

Although specific exemptions may remain for niche applications, the direction of policy is clear: mercury is being phased out, and businesses and schools must act accordingly.

What’s Being Banned?

From 1 January 2026, it will be illegal to import or manufacture:

  • Lamp-based projectors using mercury-based lamps
  • Replacement mercury lamps for existing projectors

Without access to replacement lamps, existing systems will quickly become non-functional once bulbs expire—making it essential to switch sooner rather than later.

The Risks of Delaying

Organisations still relying on mercury-based projectors face several risks:

  • Inability to source replacements
  • Degrading image quality as lamps age
  • Health and safety concerns in mercury disposal
  • Non-compliance with environmental regulations

Now is the time to future-proof your technology—and improve your presentation capabilities in the process.

Modern Alternatives: Safer, Smarter Solutions

PWD Supplies offers a full range of next-generation visual display technologies, all fully compliant with current and upcoming UK and EU regulations.

We proudly partner with:

  • ViewSonic
  • Newline
  • Samsung
  • Avocor

These global leaders provide:

  • LED projection systems
  • Interactive displays designed for collaborative classrooms, boardrooms, halls and receptions

Benefits include:

  • Crisp 4K visuals
  • Longer product life
  • Lower power consumption
  • No maintenance required

These technologies are not only environmentally responsible—they also provide superior performance and cost-efficiency over time.

Be Proactive. Be Compliant.

This isn’t just a regulatory shift—it’s an opportunity to improve how your organisation communicates and collaborates.

At PWD Supplies, we help clients identify suitable alternatives, manage installations, and train staff to ensure a seamless transition away from mercury-based technology. We make the transition simple. As part of our installation process, we’ll:

✔ Take down your old projectors

✔ Remove all associated hardware

✔ Dispose of outdated equipment responsibly

✅ All included with your new screen installation – one less thing for your site team to worry about. Ask us about our Installation Packages!

Contact Us Today

Don’t wait until 2026 to act. Whether you’re managing a school network, office environment, or public-sector estate, we’re here to help.

Get in touch with PWD Supplies to book a consultation, request a demo, or get a quote on your upgrade options. Let’s make your transition safe, smooth, and future-ready

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