Cefic’s position paper argues against listing skin sensitisers as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) under REACH Article 57(f). Cefic emphasises that skin sensitisers do not pose health risks equivalent to carcinogens, mutagens, and reproductive toxicants (CMRs). The main arguments include: the transient and reversible nature of skin sensitisation symptoms as opposed to the severe and irreversible effects of CMRs, the efficacy of current regulations and risk management measures in identifying and mitigating the risks of skin sensitisers, and the potential socio-economic downsides of unjustly stigmatising skin sensitisers.
Key Takeaways:
- Skin sensitisers have less severe and reversible health impacts compared to CMRs.
- Existing regulations under CLP and REACH are sufficient for early identification and risk mitigation of skin sensitisers.
- Listing skin sensitisers as SVHCs could lead to unnecessary stigmatisation and loss of beneficial substances for consumers and society.