Hematite (Fe2O3)

Toxicity to soil macroorganisms except arthropods

Administrative data

Endpoint:

toxicity to soil macroorganisms except arthropods: short-term

Data waiving:

study scientifically not necessary / other information available

Justification for data waiving:

the study does not need to be conducted because direct and indirect exposure of the soil compartment is unlikely

Justification for type of information:

Data are not available on the effects of iron oxides on terrestrial organisms. However, in accordance with section 1 of REACH Annex XI, studies on terrestrial organisms do not need to be conducted, as the members of the category "poorly soluble iron (hydr)oxides" are inert inorganic (hydr)oxides of iron, which resemble naturally occurring iron (hydr)oxides, and based upon the physico-chemical properties and low bioavailability of the substances. The poorly soluble iron oxide category substances are highly insoluble in water, out of toxic response to aquatic organisms and the category members do not have a potential for adsorption. Oxides of iron, manganese, and zinc, derived from natural sources, occur in soils and sediments. Iron, manganese and zinc are essential elements for humans, other animals, plants, and microorganisms. Synthetic iron oxide pigments have no relevant effect on the levels and bioavailabilities of these elements. Even under worst case conditions, an inhibitory effect of poorly soluble iron (hydr)oxides is not likely to be exerted on soil organisms.