News
News
RAC and SEAC agree a large number of draft opinions on REACH authorisation
ECHA/NA/16/30
The draft opinions of the Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) concern several uses of hexavalent chromium compounds and 1,2-dichloroethane (EDC). SEAC concluded on technical MDA and a use of arsenic acid. RAC also adopted eight opinions on harmonised classification and labelling proposals.
Helsinki, 21 September 2016 - RAC agreed on 26 draft opinions on the uses of hexavalent chromium compounds for their anti-corrosion properties and in various types of surface treatments. The parts treated with hexavalent chromium are further distributed over a broad range of industry sectors in Europe: aeronautics, aerospace, architectural, automotive, metal manufacturing and finishing, general engineering, and lithography. Nine other draft opinions were on the specific solvent use applications of 1,2-dichloroethane (EDC) in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry sectors.
SEAC agreed on 27 draft opinions on the uses of hexavalent chromium compounds for their anti-corrosion properties and in various types of surface treatments. 12 other draft opinions were on the use of arsenic acid in the electronics industry, the specific solvent use applications of 1,2-dichloroethane (EDC) in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry sectors, and technical MDA, which is used as a hardener in resins.
The committees also discussed the key issues identified in one application for authorisation on the use of bis(2-methoxyethyl)ether (Diglyme).
The committees’ draft opinions on applications for authorisation are sent to applicants for commenting. If no comments are received, the opinion will become final. If comments are received, the committees will consider the comments and then adopt their final opinion. At the September plenary meetings, both committees adopted seven final opinions on the uses of chromium trioxide.
RAC also adopted eight opinions on harmonised classification and labelling.
More details of these opinions are available in the annex. ECHA will publish the RAC and SEAC final opinions on the Agency’s website.
Further information
- Annex to RAC's news alert of 21 September 2016
- The opinions will be available on RAC's and SEAC’s web pages in the near future
Background information
The role of RAC in EU regulatory processes
RAC and SEAC are is responsible for preparing the opinion of the Agency on applications for authorisation, proposals for restrictions and proposals for harmonised classification and labelling. RAC also prepares opinions on specific questions relating to risks of chemicals to human health or the environment and on any other aspects concerning the safety of substances at the Executive Director’s request. The final decision for proposals for harmonised classification and labelling, for proposals for restrictions as well as on applications for authorisation will be taken by the European Commission through a committee procedure. Further information about RAC is available on the ECHA website at the link below:
Background information
Role of SEAC in EU regulatory processes
The committee is responsible for preparing the opinion of the Agency on applications for authorisation and proposals for restrictions. SEAC also prepares opinions on specific questions relating to socio-economic issues and on any other aspects concerning the safety of substances on their own, in preparations or in articles at the Executive Director's request. The final decision for proposals for restrictions as well as on applications for authorisation will be taken by the European Commission through a committee procedure. Further information about SEAC is available on the ECHA website at the link below: