Two substances used in the production of lubricants and greases were added to the European Chemicals Agency’s candidate list of substances of very high concern.
The SVHC list has 247 chemicals that pose a serious threat to human and environmental health. Responsibility for the safe handling of these chemicals falls on manufacturers, suppliers and users.
One of the substances – O,O,O-triphenyl phosphorothioate – has persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic properties. It is used in lubricants and greases.
The other – 6-[(C10-C13)-alkyl-(branched, unsaturated)-2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl]hexanoic acid, is toxic for reproduction and used in lubricants, greases and metal working fluids.
From the SVHC, they may be placed on a further restricted list that requires companies seek authorization from the European Commission if they wish to continue using them.