Industry News
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) have emerged as a global concern due to their widespread use and persistent nature in the environment. These chemicals, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are under increasing scrutiny by regulatory bodies and environmental organizations worldwide. Our upcoming free webinar will delve into the complexities of PFAS, focusing on the latest regulatory updates, testing methodologies, and mitigation strategies. Join us to gain a comprehensive understanding of why PFAS have become a focal point in environmental safety and public health discussions globally.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization (WHO), has updated its classification of talc and acrylonitrile, now labeling it as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A) for all forms not containing asbestos or asbestiform fibers. This update, published in The Lancet Oncology, may significantly impact the chemical industry, especially under California’s Proposition 65 (Prop 65).
As battery technology rapidly evolves and finds widespread application, the EU has introduced new battery regulations (2023/1542) aimed at enhancing the environmental and safety standards of battery products. The regulation includes a series of requirements such as control of hazardous substances, carbon footprint, CE conformity assessment, labeling requirements, and due diligence, with phased implementation.
On August 1, 2024, the European Quality Council for Medicines and Healthcare (EQDM) announced the release of the second edition of the technical guide "Metals and Alloys used in Food Contact Materials and Articles 2024," which will replace the previous CM/Res (2013) 9 version.
On June 25, 2024, the State Administration for Market Regulation (Standardization Administration of the People's Republic of China) approved the release of the mandatory national standard GB 18584-2024 "Limits of Harmful Substances in Furniture". This standard specifies the limits for harmful substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, xylene, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), migratable harmful elements, phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, decomposable aromatic amine dyes, radioactive nuclei, dimethyl fumarate, polybrominated biphenyls, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in different types of furniture, along with the criteria for test results. This standard will replace GB 18584-2001 and GB 28481-2012, and will officially come into effect on July 1, 2025.
On June 20, 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) identified tris(4-nonylphenyl, branched) phosphite and 6-[(C10-C13)-alkyl-(branched, unsaturated)-2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl]hexanoic acid as potential Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC). The proponents are finalizing the necessary documentation, expected to be submitted by August 1, 2024. Following this, ECHA will initiate a public consultation, inviting feedback from stakeholders to inform the decision on whether these substances should be included in the next SVHC candidate list.
BIS released a draft standard on ultramarine blue for use as a colourant in plastics for toys and food contact materials (FCMs).
With the release of the new standard "Hygienic Requirements for Disposable Sanitary Products" (GB 15979—2024), the industry faces new challenges and opportunities. As a professional testing organization, CIRS C&K Testing is committed to helping businesses understand and adapt to these changes to ensure that products comply with the latest regulatory requirements. Below is our professional interpretation and implementation guidance for the new standard.
On July 3, 2024, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Union issued final opinion on Silver (CAS/EC No. 7440-22-4/231-131-3, SCCS/1665/24). The preliminary opinion was released on March 27, 2023.