ECHA Proposes Three Substances as SVHCs: Public Consultation Open Until 14 April 2025

On 28 February 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched a public consultation on the classification of three substances as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) under the REACH Regulation. This step aims to enhance the protection of human health and the environment from potential risks associated with these chemicals.

Details of the Proposed Substances

1. 1,1,1,3,5,5,5-Heptamethyl-3-[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]trisiloxane (EC 241-867-7, CAS 17928-28-8)

   • Uses: Widely used in cosmetics, personal care products, perfumes, fragrances, and as a binder in paints, coatings, and adhesives.

   • Reason for Inclusion: Identified as very Persistent and very Bioaccumulative (vPvB) under Article 57(e) of REACH.

2. Decamethyltetrasiloxane (EC 205-491-7, CAS 141-62-8)

   • Uses: Used in cosmetics, personal care items, detergents, car care products, lubricants, and greases.

   • Reason for Inclusion: Classified as vPvB under Article 57(e) of REACH

3. Reactive Brown 51 (Tetra(sodium/potassium) 7-[(E)-{2-acetamido-4-[(E)-(4-{[4-chloro-6-({2-[(4-fluoro-6-{[4-(vinylsulfonyl)phenyl]amino}-1,3,5-triazine-2-yl)amino]propyl}amino)-1,3,5-triazine-2-yl]amino}-5-sulfonato-1-naphthyl)diazenyl]-5-methoxyphenyl}diazenyl]-1,3,6-naphthalenetrisulfonate); (EC 466-490-7, CAS -)

   • Uses: Used in textile treatment products and dyes.

   • Reason for Inclusion: Identified as toxic for reproduction under Article 57(c) of REACH.

Public Consultation Process

Stakeholders and interested parties are invited to submit their comments and feedback on these proposals by 14 April 2025. Comments can be submitted here. This consultation will allow for the collection of scientific information and perspectives that will inform the regulatory process. The feedback will be reviewed by the Member State Committee (MSC) before a final decision the classification of the substances as SVHCs is made.

Potential Impact on Industry

If these substances are officially recognized as SVHCs, they will be added to the Candidate List, which currently contains 247 entries. This listing could lead to further regulatory actions, including possible restrictions or authorizations, affecting industries that use these chemicals.

Conclusion

ECHA's proposal to identify these three substances as SVHCs underlines the Agency's commitment to protecting health and the environment. Stakeholders are encouraged to actively participate in the consultation process to ensure comprehensive evaluation and informed decision-making.