The European Commission is considering introducing restrictions for chromium (VI) substances under the REACH Regulation in order to streamline the regulatory process and better protect human health and the environment. The proposed measures are intended to replace the current authorisation system, covering all key Cr(VI) compounds, and are expected to lead to the adoption of new provisions no later than 2027.
The European Commission is preparing the ground for restricting the use of chromium (VI) substances under REACH. The document, presented in a question-and-answer format, explains the rationale, timeline, and planned scope of action designed to enhance the effectiveness of health and environmental protection and to streamline the regulatory process.
The initiative arises from the fact that the current authorisation system for Cr(VI) substances generates significant delays and places an excessive burden on both the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the European Commission. As a result, the main objective of the REACH Regulation – the progressive substitution of substances of very high concern with safer alternatives – is hindered. In response to these challenges, ECHA prepared an Annex XV dossier, published in April 2025, with the final adoption of the restriction expected by 2027.
The scope of the planned restriction will cover all main Cr(VI) substances listed in Annex XIV to REACH, and additionally barium chromate, in order to prevent a situation where banned substances would be replaced with other equally hazardous ones. According to the Commission’s proposal, the entry into force of the new provisions will be linked with the simultaneous removal of Cr(VI) substances from Annex XIV and their inclusion in Annex XVII, which will prevent a regulatory gap.
For businesses, this means that existing authorisations will remain valid until the entry into force of the new restrictions. A transitional period and a special selection mechanism are also being considered to allow authorisation holders to adapt to the new rules. At the same time, applications concerning substances other than Cr(VI) will take priority, while the authorisation process for chromium (VI) will be gradually phased out.
Source: Circabc
