ECHA has proposed a new EU-wide restriction to protect the public from the effects of hexavalent chromium, Cr(Vi).
ECHA assessed the risks and found that Cr(Vi) is the most potent workplace carcinogen. People living near industrial sites are also at risk for lung and intestinal cancer. Cr(Vi) substances in the following use categories will be banned when they meet the defined limits for exposure and emission.
- Formulation of mixtures
- Electroplating on plastic substrate
- Electroplating on metal substrate
- Use of primers and slurries
- Other surface treatment
- Functional additives/process aids
Cr(Vi) substances are used in industries such as electroplating, surface treatment, aviation, and defense. A large number of authorization applications have strained regulators. ECHA is tasked with potentially transferring these substances from the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Hazardous Chemicals (REACH) list to the Restrictions List to shift focus from controlled authorizations to bans with limited exemptions.
This restriction could replace current requirements under the REACH. The REACH list now contains 247 hazardous substances and ensures protection for human health and the environment from hazardous chemical substances. Cr(VI) compounds were added to the REACH SVHC list in December 2010.
An 18-month transition period is being proposed for all restricted uses. ECHA can start a restriction procedure when it is concerned that a specific substance poses an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment. ECHA’s Committee for Risk Assessment will give opinions on whether the restriction is appropriate in reducing the risk to human health and the environment. If the European Commission approves, the restriction will be adopted, and the industry, including all manufacturers, importers, distributors, downstream users, and retailers, must comply. This means that instead of requiring prior authorization Cr(Vi) compounds would be banned from use in the EU.
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