EU Restricts the use of Diisocyanates under REACh

In accordance with the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restrictions of Chemicals (REACH) legislation, the European Union (EU) has limited the use of diisocyanates. On August 24, 2023, the restriction went into effect and forbade the sale of diisocyanates for commercial and industrial usage in quantities of 0.1% or above by weight.

The restriction was adopted following a scientific assessment by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

Why REACH placed restrictions on the use of diisocyanates in the EU:
��Diisocyanate have been linked to a number of health issues, such as cancer, allergies, and respiratory issues.
��The environment may be harmed by diisocyanates.
��Diisocyanates have safer substitutes available.
��To safeguard both the environment and human health, the restriction is required.

Benefits gained due to restriction of Diisocyanates
��Lowering the amount of diisocyanates that consumers and workers are exposed to.
��Lowering the likelihood that diisocyanates can cause health issues.
��Defending against the damaging effects of diisocyanates on the environment.
��Encouraging the adoption of less dangerous options to diisocyanates.

What are Diisocyanates?
Diisocyanates are a class of substances with two R=N=C=O isocyanate functional groups. Isocyanates are organic substances made up of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen
atom and a nitrogen atom.

A wide range of additional substances, including alcohols, amines, and water, can react with the isocyanate functional group due to its high reactivity.

Diisocyanates are extremely reactive substances that, when handled or inhaled, can have negative health effects.

The skin, eyes, and respiratory system may become irritated by them. Sometimes they can lead to more severe health issues, such cancer, allergies, and asthma.

Types of Diisocyanates
Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI): MDI is the most common type of diisocyanate. It is used to make polyurethane foams, elastomers, and coatings.

Toluene diisocyanate (TDI): TDI is another common type of diisocyanate. It is used to make polyurethane foams, elastomers, and coatings.

Hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI): HDI is a less common type of diisocyanate. It is used to make polyurethane foams and elastomers.

Isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI): IPDI is a less common type of diisocyanate. It is used to make polyurethane foams and elastomers.

Health Effects
Diisocyanates can have a variety of health impacts depending on the type, exposure level, and health of the person. Diisocyanates have a number of negative health impacts,
including:

✴️Diisocyanates can irritate the skin, resulting in symptoms like swelling, itching, and redness.

✴️Diisocyanates can irritate the eyes, resulting in redness, tears, and blurred vision.
✴️Diisocyanates can lead to respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
✴️Individuals allergic to diisocyanates may experience asthma episodes as a result.
✴️Diisocyanates have been linked to allergies in some people.
✴️Diisocyanates may raise the chance of developing some types of cancer, including lung cancer, according to certain research.

Environmental Effects
It is unclear how diisocyanates affect the environment. They are understood to impair aquatic life, though. They might also add to smog and air pollution.

Important Points
✅You should take precautions to safeguard your health from the negative consequences of diisocyanates. It’s crucial to wash your skin and eyes right away if you’ve been exposed to diisocyanates. Seek emergency medical assistance if you have any respiratory issues, such as coughing or shortness of breath.

✅It’s crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended safety measures if you work with diisocyanates. Wearing protective clothes, using ventilation, and taking breaks outside
in the fresh air are a few examples of these safety measures.

Summary
✅Due to the risks to human health and the environment posed by diisocyanates, the EU has prohibited their use. A class of compounds known as diisocyanates has been linked to
cancer, allergies, and respiratory issues.
✅The limitation prohibits the sale of diisocyanates in amounts of 0.1% or more by weight for commercial and industrial usage. The limitation is anticipated to decrease consumer and worker exposure to diisocyanates and save the environment. To safeguard your health from the harmful effects of diisocyanates, you must take precautions.

For more information on the impact please book a free consultation by filling the form or writing to us at manjunath.c@globalpccs.com