REACH Chromate Restriction Update May 2025

aluminium protective coating manufacturers

ECHA Publishes Proposal to Restrict Harmful Chromates

On 29 April 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) released its long-anticipated proposal to restrict the use of chromium (VI) substances, citing significant health risks to workers. In the proposal, ECHA states that “an EU-wide restriction is justified as Cr(VI) substances are among the most potent workplace carcinogens” and represent a “serious risk to workers’ health”.

The proposed restriction includes a general ban on Cr(VI) substances, while allowing limited exemptions for specific uses, provided they meet strict thresholds for occupational exposure and environmental release. These exempted categories include:

Formulation of mixtures
Electroplating on plastic and metal substrates
Use of primers and other slurries
Other surface treatments
Functional additives and process aids

Notably, the restriction would also cover barium chromate to prevent “regrettable substitution”.

This restriction could ultimately replace the current Authorisation requirements under the REACH regulation.
A six-month consultation period is scheduled to begin on 18 June 2025, during which stakeholders will be invited to provide input. ECHA also plans to host an online information session to clarify the proposed measures and encourage participation.

ADCR Webinar

In support of industry understanding and compliance, ADCR will host a Guidance Webinar covering the recently published EEA Guidance, GB Guidance, and the ADCR Monitoring Template for surface treatments. The webinar will also introduce the ADCR instructions for completing the monitoring template.

All supporting documents are available on the ADCR Guidance and Support Page.

The webinar will also highlight additional relevant regulatory updates.

To join this public session, please register here: Webinar Registration

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ECHA Publishes Proposal to Restrict Harmful Chromates

ADCR Webinar