Bis(α,α-dimethylbenzyl) peroxide: New inclusion on the SVHC list

Bis(α,α-dimethylbenzyl) peroxide (CAS 80-43-3 / EC No. 201-279-3) has been included in the SVHC Candidate List on June 27, 2024 due to its reproductive toxicity (H360D: may harm the fetus).

REACH Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 and its updates are primarily aimed at improving protection for human health and the environment from the use of chemical substances and mixtures. Within this regulation, the criteria for identifying a substance as a substance of very high concern (SVHC) are defined. Chemical substances are evaluated periodically and those defined as SVHC have irreversible or serious effects on human health and the environment.

Inclusion of Bis(α,α-dimethylbenzyl) peroxide

The inclusion of bis(α,α-dimethylbenzyl) peroxide on the SVHC Candidate List means greater control over the use and marketing of this substance.

This compound is used as a technological adjuvant, for example, as a flame retardant in certain products. In addition, it is used in the pharmaceutical industry in the synthesis of compounds. In addition, and due to its ability to eliminate unwanted microorganisms, it acts as an active agent in the formulation of biocides.

This means that a wide range of sectors will be directly affected by the inclusion of Bis(2,6-dimethylbenzyl) peroxide on the SVHC list, in some cases having to adjust their operations to comply with a number of regulations to ensure the protection of human health and the environment. These obligations will include:

• •Updating the product safety data sheet (SDS).
• •Minimization of exposure and emission of the substance.
• •Communication of the presence of the substance in articles.
• •Notification to ECHA.

Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC)

The SVHC List is a key instrument in the regulation of Substances of Very High Concern. This list includes substances that may have carcinogenic, mutagenic, reproductive toxic, persistent in the environment or bioaccumulative properties. Candidate substances are proposed by Member States or ECHA for evaluation and possible inclusion in the Authorization List, which entails legal obligations for companies. This proposal is based on sound scientific evidence supporting the hazardousness of the substance in question.

Once proposed, the substance is subjected to a thorough evaluation to determine whether it meets the criteria for being considered a substance of very high concern. This evaluation considers aspects such as carcinogenic properties, mutagenic properties, reproductive toxicity, environmental persistence and bioaccumulative capacity.

The inclusion of new substances in this list may imply changes in regulations and legal obligations that companies must comply with, so being informed is key to ensure regulatory compliance and safe operations.

• •The Candidate List is an essential tool for identifying and controlling chemicals that pose risks to health and the environment.
• •Updates to the Candidate List can have a direct impact on business activities, as well as on the supply chain and chemical management.
• •Ongoing monitoring of changes to the Candidate List allows companies to anticipate potential future regulations and take preventative measures to mitigate risks.

If you are affected by the inclusion of Bis(2,6-dimethylbenzyl) peroxide on the Candidate List and need help in complying with these new legal obligations, CHEMETER, our safety data sheet software makes it easy to keep your documents up to date.