Per a request from the European Commission, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has conducted assessment on the risks posed by Chromium(6+) substances to workers and the public, as well as the socio-economic impacts of potential restrictions.
Based upon its review, ECHA finds an EU-wide restriction is justified as Chromium(6+) substances are potent carcinogens that pose a serious health risk. Lung and intestinal cancers are found in higher incidence among workers exposed to these substances, as well as in the affected general population that live near industrial sites where release of these substances into the environment has occurred.
ECHA proposes to introduce a ban on Chromium(6+) substances, except in the following use categories when they meet defined limits for worker exposure and environmental emissions:
- Formulation of mixtures
- Electroplating on plastic substrate
- Electroplating on metal substrate
- Use of primers and other slurries
- Other surface treatment
- Functional additives/process aids
Stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide evidence-backed information during a consultation period expected to start in June 2025. ECHA is planning to host an online information session to explain the restriction process and help stakeholders take part in the consultation.
For next steps, ECHA’s scientific Committees for Risk Assessment and Socio-Economic Analysis will evaluate the proposed restriction. The evaluation will include review of any evidence received during the consultation period.
