The EU REACH Committee recently adopted four restrictions: limiting the use of cadmium, lead in jewelry, phenylmercuric compounds, and mercury in measuring instruments. A detailed review will be conducted over the next three months, with publication expected in the Official Journal of the European Union in mid-August.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Proposal to limit the use of cadmium<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In October 2010, the European Union proposed amendments to the cadmium restriction regulations under Annex 17 of the REACH Regulation. On May 21, 2011, EU Regulation (EC) 494\/2011 amended the cadmium restriction regulations and published them in the Official Journal of the European Union. The latest revised REACH came into effect on December 10, 2011. The new regulations expanded the scope of cadmium restrictions, stipulating that cadmium can be present in certain polymers, but the content of cadmium or its compounds must not exceed or equal to the weight percentage of cadmium.0.01%<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Proposal to limit the use of lead in jewelry<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Jewelry products must contain less than 0.05% by weight of lead or its compounds. Jewelry products include:
\u2022 Bracelets, necklaces, and rings
\u2022 Watches and wristbands
\u2022 Brooches and cufflinks
Exempt items are as follows:
\u2022 Crystal glass as defined in Annex 1 (categories 1-4) of Directive 69\/493\/EEC
\u2022 Internal structural components of watchmaking products that are not directly exposed to the consumer
\u2022 Non-synthetic or recycled precious and decorative gemstones, except those treated with lead or its compounds (mixtures)
\u2022 Jewelry manufactured before December 10, 1961
\u2022 Jewelry sold within 12 months of the effective date of this regulation<\/p>\n\n\n\n