The European Commission has taken a step towards curbing the presence of lead in finished products. The previously discussed restrictions on using lead in Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) items – even for imported articles – have been implemented.
EU Bans Import of Lead in PVC Articles under REACH
The European Parliament revised the restriction of lead in Regulation EU 2023/923 on May 8, 2023. The new initiative aims to prevent up to 8.4 tonnes of lead emissions annually and create a “level-playing field” between PVC products produced within the EU, where lead content has been banned since 2015. It is set to restrict the usage of in articles products from copolymers or PVC polymers to less than 0.1%.
The Effect of Prohibition of Lead in PVC Products Sold in the EU Market
The European Union’s ban on using lead in PVC products sold in the EU market, including those imported from non-EU countries, is estimated to impact the construction industry primarily.
Specifically, companies engaged in the exportation of pipes, plastic tubes, window profiles, and wires and cables—industries where lead is commonly utilised—will be notably affected by these regulations.
Implementing these restrictions aligns with the EU’s broader objectives of safeguarding the environment and fostering sustainable practices.
Will this impact your business? Please feel free to reach out to us at HQTS for consultation.
