SVHC Status: These Substances Are Threatened with the Risk Being Added to the REACH Candidate List

Sweden and Slovenia have prepared SVHC dossiers (Annex XV reports) for three chemicals and proposed their classification as SVHCs. Companies and interest groups now have until October 16 to comment on the content of the dossiers during the consultation phase.

The Substances in Question

4,4′-[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]diphenol (BPAF): Used as a process regulator in polymer materials and in the manufacture and processing of rubber and fluoroelastomers. Amount produced: 100 to 1,000 tons per year. Studies indicate reproductive toxicity.
4,4′-Methylenediphenol (BPF): Used in paints, glazes, linings, coatings, adhesives, water pipes, and dental sealants. It is also used as a substitute for bisphenol A, which has been banned in thermal paper since 2020. It is also considered toxic to reproduction.
n-Hexane: Used in polishing agents, as an extraction solvent in food production, and in cosmetics, among other things. It is suspected of damaging the nervous system with prolonged exposure.

Background

When new findings on the harmful effects of substances on health or the environment become available, an EU member state usually takes the initiative and proposes compiling and evaluating information on the substance. This undertaking is announced in the ECHA Registry of Intentions.

What Happens Next

After the consultation phase, the Committee of Member States decides whether the substance in question meets the criteria for an SVHC. If so, the ECHA adds the substance to the REACH Candidate List. This means that the substance is a potential candidate for authorization, and special information requirements already apply to candidate list substances.

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