APEAL, the Association of European Producers
of Steel for Packaging, has announced all of its members have successfully
completed the REACH Authorisation process for the use of chromium trioxide and
sodium dichromate in the passivation of electrolytic tinplate (ETP) and the
manufacture of electrolytic chromium coated steel (ECCS).
This is an important
milestone for the packaging manufacturing landscape during the active
development and qualification of the alternative technologies for our uses and
will ensure the continued supply of European steel for packaging.
APEAL members have time-limited
Authorisation to use these substances in the passivation of ETP until the end
of 2027 and, where relevant, in the manufacture of ECCS until the end of 2028.
The Authorisations
were obtained through individual applications by APEAL members, tailored to
their respective application strategies.
There will be no
further possibility to extend the Authorisation period beyond the 2027 and 2028
deadlines imposed by these Authorisations as there is the intention of the
Commission to replace the Authorisation process for those compounds by a
Restriction.
Supply chain partners
are urged to implement these solutions before the end of the Authorisation
period, facilitating a seamless transition away from chromium VI compounds.
APEAL and its members
emphasise their commitment to the transition in line with the conditions of the
Authorisations.
The European
Commission considers that suitable alternatives are available in the European
Union for our uses and has imposed strict conditions on Authorisation holders.
The European
Commission considers that suitable alternatives are available in the European
Union for our uses and has imposed strict conditions on Authorisation holders.
These include the
documentation of efforts to substitute chromium VI compounds, the need to
persuade customers to adopt the alternative solutions and ensuring all steps
towards risk reduction for workers are taken.
This information must
be made available to the competent authority of the Member State where the
authorised uses occur.
Developed by APEAL
members, the alternative technologies for both ETP and ECCS that ensure
continued product and consumer safety, while adhering to global food contact
regulations, are now being qualified by stakeholders throughout the supply
chain.
By proactively embracing
alternative solutions, APEAL members aim to uphold the highest standards and
regulatory compliance in European manufacturing.