REACH Update: ECHA Seeks Public Input on Three OELs and Four CLH Proposals

ECHA Opens Public Consultation on OELs for Three Carcinogens

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is seeking public input on proposed occupational exposure limits (OEL) for Anthraquinone (CAS No.: 84-65-1), N-(hydroxymethyl)acrylamide (CAS No.: 924-42-5), and Butanone oxime and Acetone oxime (CAS Nos.: 96-29-7 and 127-06-0). Feedback is welcome until September 16, 2024. Substance details are provided below.

Anthraquinone

Anthraquinone is an oxidant and important in dye and pigment production. It is under ECHA review due to its classification as a category 1B carcinogen. The focus is on examining its usage and associated health risks.

N-(hydroxymethyl)acrylamide

N-(Hydroxymethyl)acrylamide is crucial in producing advanced polymers and coatings, and also facilitates the manufacture of water treatment agents and super-absorbent resins. At the European Commission's request, ECHA is evaluating the OEL for this category 1B carcinogen and mutagen. This assessment aims to update scientific data on its usage and health effects, guiding the EU in establishing effective occupational health protections.

Butanone oxime and Acetone oxime

Butanone oxime and acetone oxime enhance silicone's thermal stability and mechanical strength as essential cross-linking agents. Notably, 2-butanone oxime is classified as a Category 1B carcinogen. ECHA is actively gathering data to evaluate its OEL and other related exposure metrics.

Next step

According to EU Directive 2004/37/EC, ECHA will evaluate the OELs for three chemicals to ensure their safe workplace use and prevent occupational illnesses.

After the evaluations, the ECHA will propose OEL recommendations to the European Commission and member states to assess the need for regulatory updates or new measures to enhance worker health protection. Additionally, they will develop risk management strategies to improve safety standards in European workplaces.

ECHA Holding a Public Consultation on CLH Proposals for Four Chemical Substances

On August 12, 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) began public consultations on the harmonized classification and labeling (CLH) of four chemicals, each lasting 60 days.

The CLH process aims to standardize and clarify hazard information for carcinogens, mutagens, reproductive toxins (CMRs), and respiratory sensitizers across Europe. This includes assessing chemical hazards, proposing classifications and labels, seeking public input, and concluding with a review and recommendations from ECHA’s Risk Assessment Committee (RAC).

Further Information

OEL

CLH