The European Commission plans to put a stop to the REACH restriction procedure for cobalt salts while focusing on setting occupational exposure limits (OELs) for the compound. This decision follows a debate on how best to manage risks for the compounds.
This concerns five cobalt salts that were already due to become substances under REACH authorization. However, the Commission decided that it will be better and more suitable to restrict them. Therefore, cobalt salts now have a binding OEL under Osh legislation and this will protect workers better than before.
Cobalt salts are used for manufacturing chemicals, batteries, catalysts, biogas, and feed-grade materials. The fourth revision to the carcinogens, mutagens and reprotoxic substances Directive (CMRD) includes the Commission’s obligation to propose a limit value for cobalt and inorganic cobalt compounds latest by December 31, 2024.