ECHA to Restrict Manufacturing, Use and Marketing of DecaBDE in Textiles

HONG KONG - Dec. 11, 2014 - PRLog -- Public comments are invited before 17 March 2015. Early comments were requested by 17 November 2014 in order to assist the committee for the first discussions on the restriction proposal.

What is DecaBDE?

DecaBDE is a brominated flame retardant used in many domestic and industrial appliances and equipment. Due to it being highly effective in increasing resistance to fire, it is widely used as an additive flame retardant in different applications, including plastic, composites, textiles, adhesives and sealants, coatings, and inks. It has been identified as a persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) substance and as a very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) substance according to the REACH Regulation. It is included in the Candidate List of substances of very high concern (SVHC).

DecaBDE is generally used as an additive flame retardant in plastic and textile articles. In the textile sector, it can be used to treat a wide range of synthetic, blended and natural fibres. Main end uses are upholstery, window blinds, curtains, mattress textiles, tents and transport fabrics.

DecaBDE – a Hazard for Human Health and the Environment

DecaBDE has been identified as persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic to both humans and the environment. It is suspected to accumulate in the environment and cause unpredictable long-term effects to humans. Exposure to decaBDE in humans may result in developmental toxic effects on neuronal cells. Because of its toxic properties, the European Commission has charged the ECHA with investigating the risks and as part of this process; the ECHA has requested stakeholders to complete a risk assessment questionnaire by the deadline of 17 March 2015.

Reference:

ECHA Proposal (http://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/bffac753-8ee1-47fa-...)

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