CHEMICAL REGULATION Europe may tighten control of trichloroethylene, seven other chemicals

Abstract

Trichloroethylene (TCE) and seven other compounds could be singled out for tight regulation under March 8 proposals published by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The proposals, initiated by Denmark, France, and Germany, would classify TCE, three boron-containing compounds, and four chromates as substances of very high concern because they can potentially harm human health. The eight chemicals are carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction, according to ECHA. If European Union member states agree that these chemicals should be classified as “substances of very high concern,” ECHA will place them on a list of compounds that are candidates for authorization, a strict form of regulation. If they are selected for this level of control, the chemicals can be used only if ECHA grants a specific authorization. In addition to TCE, the chemicals are boric acid, anhydrous disodium tetraborate, tetraboron disodium heptaoxide hydrate, sodium chromate, potassium chromate, ammonium dichromate, and potassium d...