18 February 2020, the 14th amendments to CLP regulation were published in the Official Journal, in which titanium dioxide was classified as a category 2 carcinogen by inhalation. Some titanium dioxide manufacturers have said they may explore legal action following the publication of the decision.
Titanium dioxide occupies a huge market globally. The substance is applied in many industries, including cosmetics, food, textiles, rubber and pharmaceuticals. Industry even warns that as there is no direct substitute for titanium dioxide, the verdict could have a catastrophic impact on many industries.
The new classification only focuses on titanium dioxide products in powder forms with risks of inhalation. When the products contain 1% or more of the substances with aerodynamic diameter of 10μm or less, the substances will be classified as a category 2 carcinogen. When the products are in other physical condition and cannot be inhaled in use, then the new classification is not applicable.
(Source: Chemical Watch)
CIRS Suggestions:
1. If the titanium dioxide products are in powder forms with the aerodynamic diameter less than 10 μm, manufacturers shall update the SDS and label according to the latest classification requirements for their products;
2. If the products are in powder forms with the aerodynamic diameter larger than 10 μm, it is not mandatory for manufacturers to update the classifications. But related manufacturers are suggested to carry health warnings in the SDS and label;
3. With regard to titanium products in other physical condition, manufacturers do not need to update the classification for their products. But manufacturers are suggested to carry precautionary measures in the SDS to minimize hazard.
Note: The 14th adaptation to technical progress (ATP) of the CLP Regulation, adopts amendments for 28 substances. The regulation will enter into force 20 days after its publication, and the harmonized classifications will apply from 9 September 2021.
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