Why BLC are ‘Itching’ to Test Your Metal Products for Nickel Release
Does your company retail, import or manufacture metallic or metal plated products which are designed to be in prolonged contact with the skin?
If so, you need to consider testing those products for the release of nickel. Products that fall into this category and should be routinely tested for nickel release include:
- Necklaces
- Earrings
- Bracelets
- Other jewellery
- Watches
- Belt buckles
- Hair accessories
- Metallic accessories
Why do you need to test jewellery and watches for nickel?
Nickel is commonly known for causing skin irritation in sensitised people which can lead to discomfort and cause severe skin reactions. This can negatively affect the product quality and in severe cases, high nick release can lead to product recall which damages brand reputation as well as financial losses.
It is also important for all companies retailing, importing, or manufacturing products that are likely to contain nickel to ensure that those products are compliant with EU regulation, such as REACH. This regulation governs safety limits for various chemicals, including nickel, to protect consumers.
What nickel tests does BLC carry out?
At BLC, we provide nickel release testing:
- Nickel Release Testing - This nickel test is carried out to BS EN 1811:2011 +A1: 2015 and determines the rate of nickel release from the product or metallic component.
Read more on nickel testing.
Contact BLC to test your products for nickel
If you need further information on nickel testing or if you would like to test your products for nickel release and for compliance with REACH regulation, email [email protected] or to discuss, call us on +44 (0) 1604 679 999.
17 January 2018