On 29 April 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced a proposal to restrict certain hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) substances across the EU. This initiative, launched at the request of the European Commission, aims to reduce risks to human health and the environment from these well-known carcinogens.
Cr(VI) compounds, such as chromium trioxide and chromic acids, are highly toxic and have long been associated with increased risks of serious illnesses, including lung and intestinal cancers, particularly among workers. In addition, environmental emissions from industrial sites using these substances can pose threats to nearby communities.
The current proposal builds upon an initial mandate from September 2023, which focused on chromium trioxide and chromic acids on the REACH Authorisation List. In May 2024, the European Commission updated this mandate, requesting ECHA to broaden the scope to include at least 12 Cr(VI) substances, specifically entries 16 to 22 and 28 to 31 of the Authorisation List. ECHA has also been asked to consider additional substances not currently listed, such as barium chromate, due to concerns that these could be used as substitutes, carrying similar risks.
The new proposed restriction by ECHA would ban most uses of Cr(VI) substances, with exemptions for specific applications where strict control measures ensure minimal worker exposure and environmental impact. If implemented, the restriction could prevent up to 17 tonnes of Cr(VI) emissions annually and avoid an estimated 195 cancer cases per year. Over a 20-year period, the potential monetised benefits range between €331 million and €1.07 billion.
ECHA will hold a second call for evidence in June 2024 to gather further information, including on alternatives and the use of Cr(VI) in spraying applications. A webinar on 6 June will present findings from the first evidence round and clarify additional data needs.
The restriction will follow the standard REACH process, including scientific evaluations by ECHA’s Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC). Public consultation will open on 18 June 2025 for six months. The final decision rests with the European Commission and EU Member States.
