Geneva (September 19, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has issued SafeGuardS 134.25 to inform stakeholders of a new consultation launched by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) regarding the proposed inclusion of three substances as substances of very high concern (SVHCs).
On September 1, 2025, ECHA opened a 45-day consultation period on the proposed addition of the three chemicals to the Candidate List of SVHCs. If approved, the total number of entries will increase from 250 to 253. Comments will be accepted until October 16, 2025.
The proposed substances and their primary applications include:
– Bisphenol AF (BPAF) and its salts – used as a reactive process regulator in polymer and rubber production, a monomer for polyimides, polyamides, polyesters and polycarbonate copolymers and as a vulcanizing or cross-linking agent in the manufacture of fluoroelastomers. Classified as toxic for reproduction
– Bisphenol F (BPF) [210-658-2/620-92-8] – used as a substitute for other bisphenols such as BPA in polymers, plastics and thermal paper. Applications include adhesives, coatings, dental sealants, lacquers, liners, varnishes and water pipes. Toxic for reproduction
– n-Hexane [203-777-6/110-54-3] – used in cleaning agents, coatings, cosmetics, perfumes, polymer processing, polishes and wax blends. Classified as specific target organ toxicity (STOT) from repeated exposure
It is worth noting that ECHA completed its consultation on the proposed listing of 1,1′-(ethane-1,2-diyl)-bis[pentabromobenzene] (DBDPE) as a Candidate List SVHC in August 2025 (SafeGuardS 103.25).
SGS publishes SafeGuardS to help industry stakeholders stay informed about regulatory and compliance developments. SafeGuardS 134.25 outlines the consultation on three additional candidate SVHCs and provides guidance for commenting and compliance preparation.
Stakeholders are advised to review SafeGuardS 134.25 to stay up to date with evolving SVHC requirements and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to mitigate regulatory risks.
SGS chemical testing
SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS Chemical Testing Services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full ECHA Consults Over Three Chemicals as SVHCs.
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For further information contact:
Dr. Hingwo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: +852 2774 7420
Website: www.sgs.com/cp
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
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