Chemicals: Adaptation in line with EU law
Bern, 15.12.2006 - On 15 December 2006 the Federal Council decided to amend the Ordinance on Risk Reduction related to Chemical Products.
In August 2005 the Ordinance on Risk Reduction related to Chemical Products (ChemRRV) entered into force. Since that time various conditions for the supply of certain chemicals and products containing chemical substances have changed in the EU. On 15 December 2006 the Federal Council therefore decided to bring the ChemRRV in line with applicable EU conditions. This step is designed to ensure that no further unwanted barriers to trade ensue.
The adaptation will result in:
- Greater protection for the environment and for public health: It will no longer be possible to use the toxic solvent toluene in spray paints and adhesive products destined for widespread public use. Furthermore, the content of carcinogenic polycyclical aromatic hydrocarbons in extender oils used in the manufacture of tyres will be subject to new, stricter thresholds. Consequently, less of this pollut-ant will be released into the environment through tyre debris.
- Simplified procedures for industry as a result of additional exemptions with regard to the applicable bans on the use of heavy metals in electrical equipment and vehi-cles and their components. In Switzerland and in the EU the use of heavy metals in vehicles and in electrical and electronic equipment is prohibited. Exemptions apply to materials and components for which no heavy-metal-free substitute has yet been developed.
Address for enquiries
Georg Karlaganis, Head of Substances, Soil, Biotechnology Divison, tel. +41 (0)79 425 99 62
Andreas Weber, head of section, FOEN, tel. +41 (0)31 322 68 59
Publisher
Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications
https://www.uvek.admin.ch/uvek/en/home.html
