Request a Demo
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has concluded that a restriction under REACH is the most appropriate EU-wide action to address the identified risk associated with the use of certain Cr(VI) substances. This decision, requested by the European Commission, follows a comprehensive assessment of risks to workers and the public, as well as the socio-economic impacts of potential restrictions.
ECHA is proposing to include the following Cr(VI) substances to REACH Annex XVII entry:
| Substances | CAS No. | EC No. |
| Chromium trioxide | 1333-82-0 | 215-607-8 |
| Chromic acid | 7738-94-5 | 231-801-5 |
| Dichromic acid | 13530-68-2 | 236-881-5 |
| Sodium dichromate | 10588-01-9 | 234-190-3 |
| Potassium dichromate | 7778-50-9 | 231-906-6 |
| Ammonium dichromate | 7789-09-5 | 232-143-1 |
| Potassium chromate | 7789-00-6 | 232-140-5 |
| Sodium chromate | 7775-11-3 | 231-889-5 |
| Strontium chromate | 7789-06-2 | 232-142-6 |
| Barium chromate | 10294-40-3 | 233-660-5 |
| Dichromium tris(chromate) | 24613-89-6 | 246-356-2 |
| Potassium hydroxyoctaoxodizincate dichromate(1- ) | 11103-86-9 | 234-329-8 |
| Pentazinc chromate octahydroxide | 49663-84-5 | 256-418-0 |
To avoid regrettable substitution, any salt with a with a different stoichiometry and hydration degree is also meant to be covered by the restriction. Barium chromate, which is not previously subject to authorization, is also included in the scope of restriction.
The restriction applies to substances in the designation, whether used on their own or in a mixture, with a concentration equal to or greater than 0.01% by weight.
In addition, the following use conditions can be exempted provided they meet the defined occupation exposure limits:
Formulation of mixtures
Electroplating on plastic substrate
Electroplating on metal substrate
Use of primers and other slurries
Other surface treatment
Functional additives/process aids
Based on these considerations, ECHA proposes a uniform transition period of 18 months, which should provide sufficient time for companies to upgrade their risk management measures if they do not yet meet the relevant limit values.
Next steps
The proposal will then be reviewed by ECHA’s scientific committees (RAC and SEAC). The final decision rests with the European Commission and EU Member States, who will consider the proposal and committee opinions.
In the meantime, ECHA is initiating a six-month public consultation, which is expected to start on June 18, 2025. An online information session will be hosted to engage with stakeholders in the restriction process.
