The European Commission has recently issued decisions regarding the authorisation for marketing and use of substances listed under Annex XIV of the REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. These decisions, integral to the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals framework, have far-reaching implications for industries and stakeholders involved.
Key Decision: Chromium Trioxide Authorisations
Decision Reference C(2023) 7338 – Dated 15th November 2023
- Substance: Chromium Trioxide (EC No. 215-607-8, CAS No. 1333-82-0)
- Authorisation Holder: Dornbracht AG & Co. KG, Germany
- Authorisation Number: REACH/23/22/0
- Authorised Use: Decorative functional chrome plating for sanitary applications
- Review Period Expiry: 31st December 2028
- Decision Rationale: The socio-economic benefits were deemed to outweigh the risks to health and the environment, with no viable alternatives available.
Decision Reference C(2023)7339 – Dated 15th November 2023
- Substance: Chromium Trioxide
- Authorisation Holders and Uses:
- Ideal Standard Vidima AD, Bulgaria (REACH/23/21/0): Electroplating for durable, high-quality surfaces in sanitary applications.
- Ideal Standard Produktions-GmbH, Germany (REACH/23/21/1) and Ideal Standard Vidima AD, Bulgaria (REACH/23/21/2): Etching of plastics as a pre-treatment in electroplating for sanitary applications.
- Review Period Expiry: 31st December 2028
- Decision Rationale: Similar to the above, the socio-economic benefits were found to surpass the associated health and environmental risks, with no suitable alternatives identified.
Implications and Actions for Stakeholders
These decisions underscore the importance of balancing socio-economic factors with health and environmental risks in chemical use.
Stakeholders must note:
- Compliance Obligations: Ensure adherence to the specific conditions of the authorisation, particularly concerning safety measures and environmental protections.
- Review and Adaptation: Regularly review processes to align with evolving REACH regulations and explore potential alternative substances or technologies.
- Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough records and reports as required under REACH, demonstrating compliance and monitoring of authorised substance use.
