REACH Okays Chromium Trioxide for Electroplating, More Uses

Key Decision: Chromium Trioxide Authorisations

Decision Reference C(2023) 7338 – Dated 15th November 2023

Substance: Chromium Trioxide (EC No. 215-607-8, CAS No. 1333-82-0)Authorisation Holder: Dornbracht AG & Co. KG, GermanyAuthorisation Number: REACH/23/22/0Authorised Use: Decorative functional chrome plating for sanitary applicationsReview Period Expiry: 31st December 2028Decision Rationale: The socio-economic benefits were deemed to outweigh the risks to health and the environment, with no viable alternatives available.

‍Decision Reference C(2023)7339 – Dated 15th November 2023

 - Substance: Chromium Trioxide  - Authorisation Holders and Uses:          - Ideal Standard Vidima AD, Bulgaria (REACH/23/21/0): Electroplating for durable, high-quality surfaces in sanitary applications.      - Ideal Standard Produktions-GmbH, Germany (REACH/23/21/1) and Ideal Standard Vidima AD, Bulgaria (REACH/23/21/2): Etching of plastics as a pre-treatment in electroplating for sanitary applications.       - Review Period Expiry: 31st December 2028  - Decision Rationale: Similar to the above, the socio-economic benefits were found to surpass the associated health and environmental risks, with no suitable alternatives identified.

Implications and Actions for Stakeholders

These decisions underscore the importance of balancing socio-economic factors with health and environmental risks in chemical use. 

Stakeholders must note:

Compliance Obligations: Ensure adherence to the specific conditions of the authorisation, particularly concerning safety measures and environmental protections.Review and Adaptation: Regularly review processes to align with evolving REACH regulations and explore potential alternative substances or technologies.Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough records and reports as required under REACH, demonstrating compliance and monitoring of authorised substance use.