ECHA Implements New Measures to Enhance Battery Safety
Helsinki, 17 August 2023 – As part of the modernization of the EU’s battery regulatory framework, ECHA has received new projects to assist the European Commission in its operations. As part of this project, the Office will help improve a Commission report on substances of concern found in batteries or utilized in their assembly. These substances adversely affect human health, the environment, or the use of safe and high-quality raw materials for reuse/recycling. The European Commission will rely on ECHA to identify substances of concern within batteries or used in their manufacture. It will also prepare recommendations for restricting certain substances in batteries. Through this initiative, batteries on the EEA market will be more sustainable for the entire battery lifecycle. It is necessary for Europe to upgrade its batteries in order to move toward clean energy. They are also crucial to the European automobile industry. There is an expected increase of 14 folds in global interest in batteries by 2030. A revised Batteries Guideline was proposed by the European Commission in 2020 in order to limit the ecological effects of this development and to take into account changes in public opinion, new technological developments, markets, and battery purposes. The Batteries Order (Directive 2006/66/EC) was repealed by the Guideline on 17 August 2023. The law limits the use of mercury and cadmium in batteries, as well as lead in compact batteries. It also intends to: Enhance the interior market by guaranteeing a level playing field through the use of a common set of guidelines. Encourage the development of a roundabout economy. Reducing ecological and social effects throughout the battery lifecycle. ECHA’s EU assistance: It is anticipated that by 31 December 2027, the EU will recognize the substances and consider follow-up measures, such as possible EU-wide restrictions. ECHA normally begins work on this report in 2024. We have a compliance specialist who is well trained and knowledgeable about Lead and other hazardous substances, and the regulations they fall under under ECHA and EU regulations. It is also possible that the Commission will request that ECHA prepare a proposal on the limitation of destructive substances found in batteries and in waste batteries. Furthermore, the Organization will assess, through its Councils for Hazard Evaluation and Financial Examination, the viability of the limitation proposition in dealing with the gamble. It will also assess its impact on society. ComplianceXL’s services are utilized by organizations across various industry verticals for a variety of compliance-related needs, ranging from an initial compliance counselling commitment to gathering compliance statements from service providers. Since the list of providers is constantly changing, most organizations rely on our team to obtain intermittently refreshed confirmations and statements from providers in order to maintain accurate and updated compliance information. Get in touch with one of our compliance specialists today Contact Us
Discover the Newly Added Chemicals to the Proposition 65 List
In a significant move aimed at bolstering consumer safety, the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has recently expanded the list of substances known to cause cancer under California’s Proposition 65. As of August 11, 2023, three additional compounds have made their way onto the list: Anthracene, 2-bromopropane, and dimethyl hydrogen phosphite. Here’s what you should know about these developments. New Additions to the Prop 65 List Before diving into the details, let’s take a look at the newly added substances: Restricted substance name Type of Toxicity Mechanism CAS number Anthracene cancer Labour code mechanism 120-12-7 2-Bromopropane (2-BP) cancer Labour code mechanism 75-26-3 Dimethyl hydrogen phosphite cancer Labour code mechanism 868-85-9 Under Proposition 65, these substances are officially recognized as known carcinogens by the state of California. This designation serves as a warning to consumers and businesses about the potential risks associated with exposure to these chemicals. Embedded problem : The state has identified anthracene, 2-bromopropane, and dimethyl hydrogen phosphite as substances known to cause cancer in accordance with Proposition 65. The exposure to 2-bromopropane can result in dizziness, headaches, nausea, and skin or eye irritation. It is possible for the nervous system to be damaged by long-term exposure. When DMHP is in contact with the eyes, it can cause irritation and redness. The inhalation of anthracene dust or vapours from heated anthracene can cause respiratory irritation. Inhaling high concentrations for an extended period of time may have more serious effects on the respiratory system. Possible solutions include : The updated listings were created using the “Labor Code” procedure described in HSC section 25249.8(a) and Title 27 California Code of Regulations section 25904. This technique incorporates the conclusions of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), particularly those regarding compounds that the IARC has classified as human or animal carcinogenic. IARC’s findings were extremely significant in this case. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 2-bromopropane is classified as Group 2A, which indicates that it is “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Both dimethyl hydrogen phosphite and anthracene have been classified as Group 2B, which indicates that they may be carcinogenic to humans. Cattley et al., 2023) supported IARC’s assessment of their carcinogenicity to animals. The OEHHA has made the following decision: As the primary agency responsible for implementing Proposition 65, the OEHHA thoroughly evaluated these substances. Proposition 65 requires businesses to provide warnings to Californians about significant exposures to chemicals that cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Exposure to these chemicals may take place when products are acquired or consumed. As specified in Title 27, CCR, section 25904(b)(3), anthracene, 2-bromopropane, and dimethyl hydrogen phosphite qualify as chemicals known to cause cancer under Proposition 65. Violation of CA Prop 65 can lead to Penalties that can be as high as $2,500 per violation, per day. Ensure compliance with our expert services In light of these updates, businesses are faced with the challenge of maintaining compliance with Proposition 65 regulations. That’s where ComplianceXL comes in. We offer consulting services to assist businesses with Prop 65 compliance and the gathering of Prop 65 supplier declarations from vendors. Additionally, we provide specialized training on Prop 65 compliance needs for businesses. Our services equip businesses with the information and resources they need to stay in compliance with the ever-changing California Proposition 65 rules. FAQ’s: 1. What is anthracene? Anthracene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon consisting of three fused benzene rings. It is a crystalline solid that exhibits a blue fluorescence. 2. What safety precautions should be taken when working with 2-bromopropane? Whenever working with 2-bromopropane, make sure the environment is well ventilated and wear protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and safety goggles. Ensure that you do not encounter your skin or inhale vapour. 3. What are the four minimum procedure for Proposition 65 listing and delisting activities? a) Public notice that a chemical is under consideration for listing. b) A public comment periods. c) Review of comments received. d) Notice of the final decision. 4. What is NSRL? No Significant Risk Levels (NSRLs) is safe Harbor level for cancer-causing chemicals.
ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) adds 8 more substances for REACH Authorisation – 11th Recommendation kicks in.
To ensure proper control of risks for human health and the environment ECHA recommends that the European Commission adds eight substances to the REACH Authorisation List including Lead. Use of Lead in batteries, ammunition, cables, vehicles, machinery, electronics, radiation shielding, sanitary, construction, art and musical instruments comes under the scope of authorisation. As a reprotoxic substance, volume range set for lead in the scope of authorisation is >1000. The other seven recommended substances include: Ethylenediamine (CAS# 107-15-3) 2-(4-tertbutylbenzyl) propionaldehyde and its individual stereoisomers Glutaral (CAS# 111-30-8) 2-methyl-1-(4-methylthiophenyl)-2-morpholinopropan-1-one (CAS# 71868-10-5) 2-benzyl-2- dimethylamino-4’-morpholinobutyrophenone (CAS# 119313-12-1) Diisohexyl phthalate (CAS# 71850-09-4) and Orthoboric acid of sodium salt group. Ethylenediamine and Glutaral cause respiratory ailments. Rest of recommended substances such as 2-(4-tertbutylbenzyl) propionaldehyde and its individual stereoisomers, 2-methyl-1-(4-methylthiophenyl)-2-morpholinopropan-1-one, 2-benzyl-2- dimethylamino-4’-morpholinobutyrophenone, Diisohexyl phthalate, Orthoboric acid, sodium salt are identified as toxic to reproduction. Most of these substances are part of other directives too. 2-methyl-1-(4-methylthiophenyl)-2-morpholinopropan-1-one and Diisohexyl phthalates are also part of the medical device directive, CMD (Conflict Minerals Declaration), CAD, ELV, WFD Directive. Glutaral is listed in cosmetic directive of EU (European Union) union. Once substances are added to the authorization list, companies will need to apply for authorisation for their specific uses. Also, companies should look for viable alternatives. The Candidate List of substances of very high concern has been prioritized by ECHA as the highest priority substances, following the 2014 agreement. Lead was included in the draft recommendation published on 2 February 2022, which generated a great deal of feedback during the consultation process. As a result, ECHA’s Member State Committee discussed the timing, the relationship with other ongoing or planned regulatory activities, and the expected workload for industry and authorities. To ensure worker and environmental protection, ECHA recommends the European Commission add eight substances to the REACH Authorization List, including lead. Adding substances to the list will require companies to apply for authorization to continue using them. With our clients, we make sure they are always compliant with global regulations and are always operating responsibly and sustainably. With our comprehensive solutions, organizations can assess their current compliance status and stay up to date on ECHA requirements. Additionally, we provide reporting services to ensure that all necessary documentation is completed accurately and on time. For information on the 11th recommendation of REACH Authorization, contact one of our compliance experts today.
ECHA regulations – EU-wide restrictions on brominated flame retardants (BFRs)
ECHA has identified a few flame retardants, mainly aromatic brominated flame retardants as candidates for an EU-wide restriction. Restriction would hopefully minimise the exposure of people and the environment to these substances which are considered to be persistent, potentially bioaccumulative and toxic. Aromatic brominated flame retardants, such as PBDE (polybrominated diphenyl ethers), are widely used in plastics, textiles, electronic castings, circuitry and generally persistent in the environment. Many, like Deca-BDE (decabromodiphenylether), are also suspected of being toxic and accumulating in people and animals. BFR-treated products, whether in use or waste, release BFRs into the environment and contaminate the air, soil and water. The release of these contaminants could be minimized through an EU-wide restriction. Before a potential restriction proposal, some assessment work is required to find out if hazardous substances are released when products containing flame retardants are disassembled, recycled, or dumped. Assessment includes checking on the availability of suitable alternative substances or materials. The restriction scope could cover all aromatic BFRs that are listed or will be confirmed to be PBT or vPvB through harmonized classification or identification as substances of very high concern (SVHCs). Assessment results and data are expected to be available from 2024 onwards. ECHA suggests reassessing the situation for these groups in 2025. Our experts can help guide you through the upcoming BFR restrictions and ensure smooth sailing for your business. Talk to us today!
ECHA Received New Restriction Proposals
ECHA has received two restriction reports for 2 substances from German and French authority. 4,4′-isopropylidenediphenol (bisphenol A) and other bisphenols and bisphenol derivatives, and creosote or related substances German Authority prepares restriction report for 4,4′-isopropylidenediphenol (bisphenol A) and other bisphenols and bisphenol derivatives as it has endocrine disrupting properties. The report restricts the presence of content in articles to 0.02% by weight. Bisphenol A is already identified as SVHC due to its toxic effects on reproduction Additionally it causes harmful effects on hormonal system of organisms. Also, Wastewater treatment results in Continuous emission of Bisphenols into surface water causing constant water pollution. France terminated the restriction process for creosote and creosote-related substances on 18 July 2022, according to Article 69(4) of REACH. But resubmitted a new intention in October. Creosote is used as a wood preservative. It is also used to treat electricity poles, railway sleepers, fencing and poles in agricultural land. It is a well-known carcinogen. It has also persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) and very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) properties. ECHA’s scientific Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) will now evaluate the Restriction proposals. A consultation will be opened for the public once the reports conform with the legal requirements for a REACH restriction proposal. For more information on the creosote and Bisphenol restriction details, Talk to one of our material compliance experts today!
ECHA submits proposal to restrict Creosote
The intentions and Annex XV restriction proposals received by ECHA is listed under the registry of restriction intentions. A restriction proposal might be prepared by a Member State or by ECHA at the request of the Commission or on its own initiative for substances in the Authorization List. The requirement for a Member State to notify ECHA of its intention to prepare a restriction dossier is a legal requirement. This advance notice helps the interested parties to plan and prepare for commenting later. In the restriction process, the progress of the proposal is tracked by the Interested Parties by notifying of the intention, adopting the final opinions by the Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) and the Committee for Socioeconomic Analysis (SEAC), and adopting the restriction by the European Commission. During the preparation of the restriction proposal and during the consultations, the Stakeholders are encouraged to submit any relevant information to the dossier submitters. A description of the reasons for any exceptions to the scope described in the intention is particularly useful in the preparation phase of the dossier. Proposal to restrict the placing on the market and reuse of treated articles containing creosote (EC 232-287-5, CAS 8001-58-9) and creosote-related substances is submitted by France. The evaluation of the proposal by the Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) will begin in April 2022. The proposal will be opened for a six-month public consultation after the committees agree that it complies with REACH requirements. The restriction proposal aims to reduce the health and environmental risks associated with the reuse and second-hand use of wood treated with creosote (CAS 8001-58-9, EC 232-287-5) and creosote-related substances. Creosote (EC 232-287-5, CAS 8001-58-9) and Creosote-related substances are Tar Oils derived from coal and/or wood by distillation or by other processes. It contains Coal Tar (CAS- 65996-91-0), Anthracene oil (CAS- 90640-80-5), Creosote oil (CAS-90640-84-9), Cal tar oils (CAS-122384-78-5) and Creosote, wood -a combination of phenols obtained as a distillate from wood tar (CAS-8021-39-4).