On 8 July 2021, ECHA integrated 8 new chemical substances to its Candidate List. The list contains substances of high concern that may harm humans or the environment, which now includes a total of 219 different substances. They are classified according to the REACH regulation.

The newly added substances are:

• 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl)propionaldehyde and its individual stereoisomers; known for its toxicity on reproduction (can be found in cleaning agents, cosmetics, scented articles, polishes, and wax blends).
• Orthoboric acid, sodium salt; known for its toxicity on reproduction (can be found in solvent and corrosion inhibitors).
•  2,2-bis(bromomethyl)propane 1,3-diol (BMP); known for its carcinogenicity (can be found in manufacture of polymer resins and in one component foam application).
•  Glutaral; known for its respiratory sensitising properties (can be found in biocides, leather tanning, x-ray film processing, cosmetics).
• Medium-chain chlorinated paraffins; known for persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity (can be found in flame retardants, plasticising additives, sealants, rubbers, and textiles)
• Phenol, alkylation products with C12-rich branched alkyl chains; known for its toxicity on reproduction and endocrine disruptive properties (can be found in lubricant additive materials and fuel system cleaners).
•  1,4-dioxane; known for its carcinogenicity, environment, and health damage (can be found in solvent).
• 4,4′-(1-methylpropylidene)bisphenol; known for its endocrine disrupting properties (can be found in manufacture of phenolic and polycarbonate resin).

Since 8 July 2021, Importers and manufacturers using these substances have 6 months to inform ECHA about it. For safe use, consumers shall be notified when each of these substances exceeds a concentration of 0.1% in consumer products.

More information on the updated Candidate List can be found here.