Five new chemicals added to the EU list of substances of very high concern
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has identified five new substances as being of very high concern. They are often used in products like lubricants, greases and in the manufacture of cosmetics and healthcare products.
The EU lists substances that may have severe effects on human health or the environment on a list called the Candidate List. Once a substance is included on the list, it imposes immediate requirements on companies that manufacture, import or sell articles containing the substance. Examples of these requirements are that consumers have the right to be informed on request if an article contains such a substance. Another example is that those using the articles in their profession should receive the information without asking for it. Companies supplying articles to such users must notify the articles to a database at the European Chemicals Agency.
Once a substance is placed on the list of substances of very high concern, authorisation may be required in the future to use the substance and to import, sell or introduce chemical products containing it. The aim of listing substances of very high concern is to phase them out.
On 21 January 2025, ECHA updated the list with the substances listed below. One substance has also received an updated substance description.
6-[(C10-C13)-alkyl-(branched, unsaturated)-2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl]hexanoic acid, EC number 701-118-1, CAS number 2156592-54-8
The substance has been identified as toxic for reproduction. It is used in lubricants, greases, release products and metal working fluids.
O,O,O-triphenyl phosphorothioate, EC number 209-909-9, CAS number 597-82-0
The substance has been identified as persistent, it can be stored in living tissue (bioaccumulative) and is toxic. It is used in lubricants and greases.
Octamethyltrisiloxane, EC number 203-497-4, CAS number 107-51-7
The substance has been identified as very persistent and very bioaccumulative. It is used in the manufacture of cosmetics, personal/health care products, pharmaceuticals, washing and cleaning products, coating and non-metal surface treatment and in sealants and adhesives.
Perfluamine, EC number 206-420-2, CAS number 338-83-0
The substance has been identified as very persistent and highly bioaccumulative. It is used in the manufacture of electrical, electronic and optical equipment and machinery and vehicles.
Reaction mass of: triphenylthiophosphate and tertiary butylated phenyl derivatives, EC number 421-820-9, CAS number 192268-65-8
The substance has been identified as persistent, it might be bioaccumulative and is toxic. No registered use.
Substance with updated substance description:
Tris(4-nonylphenyl, branched and linear) phosphite
The substance is identified as an endocrine disruptor. It is used in polymers, adhesives, sealants and coatings.
Further reading:
Press release from the European Chemicals Agency, ECHA. External link.
The Candidate List - the EU list of substances of very high concern. External link.