European commission proposed to restrict diisocyanates

16 September 2019，EUROPEAN UNION submitted a notification（No. G/TBT/N/EU/681） to the WTO for publication of the draft. It plans to add diisocyanates to the list of restricted substances in appendix XVII of REACH. The draft would restrict the use of diisocyanates as substances on their own, as a constituent in other substances or in mixtures for industrial and professional use(s), individually or in any combination of these diisocyanates, in a concentration above 0.1% by weight. Application of the restriction is deferred for 2 years for use and 18 months for placing on the market. And proposed date of adoption is December 2019.

Diisocyanates is mainly used in the manufacture of polyurethane products such as foams, sealants, coatings and adhesives. The exposure to diisocyanates in a concentration, individually or in any combination, equal to or greater than 0.1% by weight of the substances or mixtures poses a risk to human health, in particular a risk of occupational asthma in workers.

With the constant update of REACH regulations, enterprises are faced with more and more requirements. Enterprises exporting to Europe should make preparations in advance to effectively prevent subsequent risks. CTT will keep you informed of the latest developments in REACH.