Annex XVII of EU REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 lists restrictions on the manufacture, placing on the market, and use of certain hazardous substances, mixtures, and articles. Entry 47 specifically targets chromium (VI) compounds. This entry initially focused on chromium (VI) in cement. It was later amended in 2014 by Regulation (EU) No 301/2014 to include restrictions on chromium (VI) in leather articles, which became effective on 1 May 2015.Source of Chromium (VI): Approximately 80% of leather is produced using chrome tanning. The process uses chromium (III). However, under specific conditions (e.g., pH changes, temperature, UV radiation, or exposure to oxidizing agents), chromium (III) can be oxidized to chromium (VI).

Hazards: Chromium (VI) can be absorbed through the skin. It is a strong sensitizer and can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Long-term or repeated exposure increases the risk of cancer and can cause damage to multiple organ systems.The restrictions for chromium (VI) are as follows:

1.Cement and cement-containing mixtures shall not be placed on the market or used if they contain, measured as a fraction of the total dry weight of the cement, soluble chromium (VI) in a concentration > 0.0002 % by weight.

2.Where a reducing agent is used, and without prejudice to the Community provisions on the classification, labelling, and packaging of dangerous substances and mixtures, the supplier shall indicate on the packaging in a clearly visible and legible manner the packaging date, and the conditions and period of validity for maintaining the activity of the reducing agent and for keeping the chromium (VI) content below the limit described in point 1.

3.Points 1 and 2 shall not apply to cement and cement-containing mixtures used in controlled closed and totally automated processes in which contact with the skin does not occur.

4.The water-soluble chromium (VI) content of the cement shall be determined in accordance with the testing methods adopted by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN).

5.Leather articles coming into contact with the skin shall not be placed on the market if they contain chromium (VI) in concentrations equal to or greater than 3 mg/kg.

6.Articles containing leather parts coming into contact with the skin shall not be placed on the market if those parts contain chromium (VI) in concentrations equal to or greater than 3 mg/kg.

7.Points 5 and 6 shall not apply to second-hand articles placed on the market before 1 May 2015.

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