The EU Commission has published an updated version of its Q&A on the restriction of Cr(VI) substances, providing clarification on the transition from the Authorisation process to Restriction under REACH.
This updated Q&A mainly aims to clarify how already submitted Applications for Authorisation and review reports will be handled during the transition phase. In particular, the Commission confirms that applications and review reports for which the scientific committees have already initiated opinion making will continue to be processed, in order to ensure the timely adoption of the related opinions. In addition, to avoid disruption of access to the EU market, applications for new Cr(VI) uses or users not covered by existing authorisations or transitional arrangements will also continue to be processed.
However, in view of the ongoing restriction process, the Commission will prioritise applications for substances other than Cr(VI) for future opinion making. As a result, opinion making for all other Cr(VI) applications and review reports will be suspended until Cr(VI) substances are removed from the Authorisation List (Annex XIV) and the restriction becomes applicable. This suspension applies to already submitted applications and review reports for which an invoice has not yet been issued. The companies concerned will be informed individually in due course via their REACH-IT account.
Companies dealing with Cr(VI) compounds are encouraged to consult the updated Q&A document for further details.
