At the request of the European Commission, ECHA has assessed the risks posed by certain Cr(VI) substances to workers and the public as well as the socio-economic impacts of potential restrictions. The Agency concluded that an EU-wide restriction is justified, as Cr(VI) substances are highly potent workplace carcinogens and also pose cancer risks to people living near emission sources.
ECHA proposes to introduce a ban on Cr(VI) substances, except in the following use categories when they meet defined limits for worker exposure and environmental emissions:
- Formulation of mixtures
- Electroplating on plastic substrate
- Electroplating on metal substrate
- Use of primers and other slurries
- Other surface treatment
- Functional additives/process aids
The proposed restriction would replace current REACH authorisation, ensuring continued risk control for Cr(VI) substances. All stakeholders have the opportunity to provide information backed by robust evidence during a six-month consultation, that opened on 18 June 2025.