Two New Substances Added to European Chemicals Agency's Hazardous Chemicals List

The substances n-hexane and 4,4'-[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]diphenol and its salts have been added to the European Chemicals Agency’s candidate list of substances of very high concern (SVHCs), ECHA announced last week. The list, which now includes 253 entries, comprises chemicals that can harm humans or the environment. Inclusion of substances on the candidate list triggers requirements for suppliers, importers, and producers under the European Union’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation. For example, EU and European Economic Area suppliers of substances on the list must update the safety data sheets they provide to customers.

According to ECHA, n-hexane is used in formulation, polymer processing, coatings, and cleaning agents, and the substance can cause specific target organ toxicity after repeated exposure. The agency says that the substance 4,4'-[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]diphenol and its salts are used as process regulators and cross-linking agents. ECHA’s reasoning for including this substance on the candidate list is that it is toxic for reproduction.

Chemicals on the SVHC candidate list may later be placed on the authorization list, which prohibits companies from using certain substances in the EU unless they apply for authorization and the European Commission approves the continued use. ECHA’s news article provides further information about the newly added substances and the SVHC candidate list.