The European Chemical Administration (ECHA) has found substances in childcare products such as car seats, bibs, and baby diapers that can cause cancer, genetic mutations, or damage reproduction. Its investigation will help the European Commission develop a restriction measure on these chemicals within the EU to protect children.


Helsinki, November 8, 2023- A survey conducted by ECHA based on information from 48 different sources has shown that there may be carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reproductive toxic (CMR) substances present in childcare products (items). Metals such as cobalt and lead, as well as phthalates such as DEHP, are the most common CMR substances in children's care products.

CMR is most commonly found in car seats, bibs, toiletry-related products, as well as bedding and mattresses. Children may come into contact with these harmful substances during use, such as through skin or oral contact, and due to their small size, physiological and behavioral development, they are particularly vulnerable to chemical damage.

The ECHA report provides elements to support the European Commission in preparing for potential future restrictions. This includes information on how to define childcare provisions, what restrictions may cover, potential derogations, recommended concentration limits, and implementation timeframes. The report also includes the views of the ECHA Executive Forum on the feasibility of implementing such restrictions.

The report will now be sent to the European Commission, which will use it to prepare a draft restriction proposal in accordance with Article 68 (2) of REACH. This procedure allows the committee to prepare restriction proposals without involving the ECHA Scientific Committee.

background

The purpose of the ECHA survey is to support the European Commission in developing restrictive measures under the REACH regulation to protect children from exposure to CMR substances in childcare products. It focuses on substances classified as CMR Class 1A (known human carcinogens, mutagens, or reproductive toxins) or Class 1B (presumed human carcinogens, mutagens, or reproductive toxins) according to Classification, Labeling, and Packaging (CLP) regulations, which have a unified classification.


During the investigation, ECHA organized two public solicitations of evidence and consultations on the draft report. The organization contacted 233 different stakeholders to report on their work and consider their feedback.