Chemical name: Benzene Final regulatory action has been taken for the category: Industrial Final regulatory action: The chemical is Severely Restricted Use or uses prohibited by the final regulatory action: 1.Not permitted in toys or parts of toys as placed on the market where the concentration of benzene in the free state is in excess of 5 mg/kg of the weight of the toy or part of toy. 2.Shall not be used in concentrations equal to, or greater than, 0.1% by mass in substances or preparations placed on the market. 3.However paragraph 2 shall not apply to: (a) motor fuels which are covered by Directive 98/70/EC of the European Partliament and of the Council of 13 October 1998 on the quality of petrols and diesel fuels and amending Council Directive 92/12/EC. (b) substances and preparations for use in industrial processes not allowing for the emission of benzene in quantities in excess of those laid down in existing legislation. (c) waste covered by Council Directive 75/442/EEC and Council Directive 91/689/EEC. Use or uses that remain allowed: All other uses not listed above. The final regulatory action was based on a risk or hazard evaluation: Yes Summary of the final regulatory action: 1.Not permitted in toys or parts of toys as placed on the market where the concentration of benzene in the free state is in excess of 5 mg/kg of the weight of the toy or part of toy. 2.Shall not be used in concentrations equal to, or greater than, 0.1% by mass in substances or preparations placed on the market. Certain exceptions apply. The reasons for the final regulatory action were relevant to: Human health Summary of known hazards and risks to human health: After long-term exposure to levels above 1 ppm, there is a risk of chromosomal damage. Included in the highest class on the Danish list of neurotoxic substances. The compound is taken up by the body mainly through inhalation of vapour, but also via intact skin. Rapidly absorbed through ingention. Short-term exposure may lead to drowsiness, headache and dizziness. The compound has narcotic effects. Long-term exposure may lead to anaemia and leukaemia. Inhalation: the vapour is irritating to the respiratory system, see also above. Skin contact: may be irritating to the skin. Extracts the lipids of the skin and may give rise to wounds and chapped skin. Eye contact: Splashes or high concentrations of the vapour may injure the eyes. Date of entry into force of the final regulatory action: 01/01/2001 |