Substances of very high concern (SVHC) are in the focus of the REACH authorisation process. Hazardous properties, which enable selection as SVHC have e.g. carcinogenic or mutagenic properties. Anyone working with these SVHC should make sure they full understand the process and be aware of suitable alternatives. New SVHC are being looked at all the time so an awareness of how this process works and its potential affect on your business should not be underestimated. Please take the time to come along to this lecture and ask any questions.
Main aim of the authorisation is that SVHCs are properly controlled and substituted wherever this is economically and technically viable. One example of a substance in focus of the authorisation is potassium dichromate, which is a central part of the COD Cell test and several other test kits/analytical reagents/analytical standards. The manufacturing of COD Cell Tests will be forbidden due to a formulation step in the manufacturing process after September 2017 unless authorisation is granted. The application for authorisation is challenging, taking time and a lot of money. It is likely some test kit formulations will have to change and some kits may not be available in the future because of concerns over some chemical components.
Merck KGaA and others are applying for authorisation of COD Cell Tests and are confident the application will be successful.
