REACH: ECHA Proposes EU-Wide Ban on Thirteen Chromium (VI) Substances

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed a new restriction that would effectively ban certain chromium (VI) substances across the European Union. These substances, which are currently managed through the REACH authorization process, have been identified by ECHA as among the most potent workplace carcinogens, posing a serious risk to worker health.

In its official report, ECHA concluded that an EU-wide restriction is necessary. The proposal would ban the use of these chromium (VI) substances, either on their own or in mixtures, at a concentration equal to or greater than 0.01% by weight. The plan includes exemptions for certain uses when they meet defined limits for worker exposure and environmental emissions. All stakeholders have the opportunity to provide information backed by robust evidence during a six-month consultation, which is expected to start on 18 June 2025.

With this proposal now public, the immediate next step for businesses is to identify where chromium (VI) substances are used across their product lines. Conducting a "Where-Used" analysis is an effective way to gather this data, which provides the necessary foundation for assessing the full impact of the proposed restrictions on a company's portfolio and supply chain.