Managing the Risk of Chrome VI Formation in Leather
Managing the Risk of Chrome VI Formation in Leather
Chromium VI has been restricted under Annex XVII of REACH (Entry 47) since 2015. In addition, chromium VI has been listed under California Proposition 65 since 1987 due to its carcinogenic properties. Until recently, there have been no settlements in footwear, accessories or related leather goods relating to chromium VI non compliances. However, 2019 saw the beginnings of a number of 60-day notices issued for leather gloves and related products retailed in California.
What is Chromium VI?
Chromium III tanned leather can form traces of chromium VI under certain conditions; this conversion is known as an oxidation reaction and can occur during tanning as a result of factors such as changes in pH, the use of oxidising agents, presence of unsaturated fats and high levels of free chromium. Furthermore, it is possible for chromium VI to form post manufacturing through external factors such as exposure to high temperatures, low humidity and direct UV light.
It should be noted that a well-constructed and controlled leather processing recipe should minimise the risk of chrome VI formation in the finished leather or later in the finished product.
Chrome VI Support with Eurofins | BLC
At Eurofins | BLC, we are able to provide a variety of Chrome VI support services to help your business manage the risk of chromium VI in the supply chain. Our range of analytical testing and bespoke tools are designed to enable brands, retailers and leather manufacturers to minimise and control the risk of chromium VI in leather:
- Chrome VI testing at our UKAS accredited laboratory, in accordance with BS EN ISO 17075-1 and 17075-2 as a means to demonstrate compliance to EU and international legislation.
- Chrome VI ageing analysis in accordance with ISO 10195, to assess the propensity of chromium VI to form in leather after exposure to high heat and low humidity.
- Chrome VI ageing analysis to assess the propensity of chromium VI to form in leather after exposure to UV light.
- Chrome VI audits: Conducted by technical experts offering both on-site and desk audits which identify risk areas for chromium VI formation within a tannery’s production process.
- Technical support, troubleshooting and guidance for brands, retailers and manufacturers.
- Chromium VI Risk Profiler Tool: Instant identification of key risk areas for the management of chromium VI within tanneries.
- Chromium VI Testing Calculator: Evaluates best practice due diligence testing quantities for leather goods.
- Corporate Training: Learn how to manage chromium VI risks and understand chemical compliance to key legislation – bespoke training available.
At Eurofins | BLC, we advise retailers and manufacturers to gain third party assurance that their leather and/or leather products do not contain non-compliant levels of chromium VI through testing, auditing, training, and using our Tannery Risk Profiler. You can discuss any concerns regarding chromium VI risks and legislation such as California Proposition 65 with one of our chemical and regulatory experts, as well as request a product demonstration by emailing [email protected], calling +44 (0)1604 679999 or completing the web contact form below.
1 November 2021