On 7 November 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) added triphenyl phosphate (CAS No 115-86-69) to its Candidate List of substances of very high concern (SVHC). Triphenyl phosphate is known to be an endocrine disruptor and is widely used as a flame retardant and plasticiser in a variety of products, including polymers, adhesives and sealants. This latest update brings the Candidate List to 242 entries, underlining ECHA’s commitment to chemical safety.

Impact of the Inclusion of Triphenyl Phosphate in the Candidate List

With triphenyl phosphate now on the SVHC list, companies across the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA) face new obligations under REACH. Companies must assess and communicate the risks associated with this chemical to ensure its safe use. Suppliers are required to inform consumers if articles contain more than 0.1% triphenyl phosphate and provide information on safe use. They must also update the safety data sheet they provide to their customers. Importers and manufacturers must notify ECHA of all articles containing the substance within six months of inclusion in the Candidate list.

New Regulatory Requirements and Industry Compliance

The inclusion of triphenyl phosphate on the SVHC list brings additional compliance requirements. Under the Waste Framework Directive, companies must notify ECHA if the articles they produce contain SVHCs above a concentration of 0.1%.  The notifications will be published ECHA’s database of substances of concern in products (SCIP), helping to increase transparency on hazardous chemicals in products. In addition, items containing SVHCs cannot be awarded the EU Ecolabel, in line with ECHA’s mission for safer consumer products.