Coolants (antifreezes) used in the automotive industry contain dangerous substances. These may include specific substances such as boric acid and borates. The presence of these substances is the reason that the sale of some coolants (antifreezes) will be restricted or even prohibited.
As we have already informed you, On 17 December 2022, Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/849 amending Regulation No 1272/2008 on the classification, labelling and packaging of dangerous substances and mixtures (17th ATP of the CLP Regulation) will enter into force.
Among the amendments introduced, one refers to Annex VI, Part 3, which now classified boric acid and borate as toxic for reproduction - H360 Repr.1B.
These substances may affect fertility and the unborn child. The general concentration limit for the classification of mixtures containing substances toxic for reproduction is 0,3 %. In the case of coolants, this means that if the antifreeze contains more or at least 0.3% borates or boric acid, the product is also classified as toxic to reproduction with H360.1B.
Such products are limited by Regulation (EC) no. 1907/2006 (REACH), Annex XVII, Entry 30. Under this restriction, they must not be sold to the general public/end-buyers/consumers. However, they can still be used by professional and industrial users.
Coolants (antifreezes) containing boric acid or borate at a concentration above or at least 0.3% may therefore no longer be sold to consumers after 17.12.2022.
However, they may continue to be sold to professional users (e.g. auto mechanics). Suppliers should provide professional users with appropriate safety data sheets which comply with the new boric acid and borate classification. Antifreeze must be labelled in accordance with section 2.2. of the new safety data sheets. The packaging must be indicated: Restricted to professional users.
Let me remind you of another obligation that we have written about many times. As these are dangerous mixtures in the case of antifreezes, they must have a specific UFI code and a PCN notification carried out in the country in which they are placed on the market.
In case of questions about the classification and labelling of different types of chemicals, please contact me at simona.miklavcic@bens-consulting.eu.
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