EU Restricts Dichloromethane in Paint Strippers
|
New EU restrictions will severely restrict the use of paint strippers containing more than 0.1% by weight of dichloromethane (DCM) for public, professional and industrial use. These requirements are introduced by Decision No 455/2009/EC (1), and are phased-in as follows.
Requirements for paint strippers containing dichloromethane (DCM) at a concentration equal to or greater than 0.1% by weight
| Deadline |
Requirements |
Comments |
| 6 Dec, 2010 |
Shall not be placed on the market for the first time for supply to the general public or professionals |
DCM-containing paint stripper initially entering the EU supply chain |
| 6 Dec, 2011 |
Shall not be placed on the market for supply to the general public or professionals
Paint strippers containing dichloromethane (DCM) at a concentration equal to or greater than 0.1% by weight shall be labeled:
"Restricted to industrial use and to professionals approved in certain EU Member States - verify where use is allowed."
|
These paint strippers may only be supplied to:
- Professionals for use where permitted in the Member State
- Industrial facilities
|
| 6 Jun, 2012 |
Shall not be used by professionals (unless permitted by Member State derogation) |
Member States have the option to permit the supply to and use by specifically trained professionals of paint strippers exceeding the 0.1% DCM limit for certain activities within their territory |
Professionals using paint strippers exceeding than 0.1% DCM limit after 6 June 2012 may do so only:
- Within the territory of a Member State permitting such use and in accordance with its national requirements.
- After specific training in the safe and competent use of DCM-containing paint strippers; supported by a certificate or other documentary evidence recognized by the Member State.
- Having evaluated and managed the risks to health, including the use of alternatives materials or processes and working conditions, adequate ventilation and use of personal protective equipment.
Industrial installations using DCM-containing paint strippers are subject to tighter controls.
Definitions
- Professional
Any natural or legal person, including workers and self-employed workers undertaking paint stripping in the course of their professional activity outside an industrial installation.
- Industrial installation
A facility used for paint stripping activities.
(1) OJ L 137, 3.6.2009, p.3
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2009:137:0003:0006:EN:PDF
For more information about product safety, you may ask Intertek expert by filling in this enquiry form.
|
|
