| The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) recently published a draft list of substances requiring ECHA authorization for use, following the inclusion of 15 substances in the initial REACH Very High Concern (SVHC) list in 2008. According to the draft, seven substances were initially added to the list (Annex XIV). The seven substances on the list are: 5-tert-butyl-2,4,6-trinitro-m-xylene (xylene musk), short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs, C10–C13), hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) and all associated major non-corresponding isomers, bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and 4,4'-diaminodiphenylmethane (MDA). Under REACH regulations, companies wishing to use substances on the authorization list must apply for a license. Applicants must demonstrate that the risks of using the substance are adequately controlled, or that the socio-economic benefits outweigh the risks, and that there are no substitutes or corresponding alternative technologies. ECHA stated that it assesses whether to include these chemicals in the REACH restricted list based on the inherent characteristics, intended use, and approved dosage of the product. All stakeholders must respond to the consultations by April 14, 2009, and ECHA will determine the priority list by June 1, 2009. ECHA also recommends that authorization applications be submitted within 24–30 months of the inclusion of these substances in Annex XIV of REACH. These substances will cease to be used 42–48 months after being included on the list. ECHA also recommends that substances exempted under special conditions under Directive 76/769/EEC should also be included in the assessment. ECHA stated that it will consider comments received during the consultations and opinions from Member State committees, and may amend the draft before submitting the proposal to the European Commission for consideration. ECHA stated that it will consider authorizing the inclusion of eight substances on the SVHC list—anthracene, cobalt chloride, arsenic pentoxide, arsenic trioxide, sodium dichromate dihydrate, bis(tributyltin) oxide, lead arsenate, and triethylarsenate—at a later time. ECHA recommends that downstream companies promptly check whether they are using raw materials listed as SVHCs, regularly audit their suppliers (providing safety data sheets to suppliers when necessary), and gradually replace SVHC raw materials within the specified timeframe. |
