NZPMA Statement Regarding ECHA’s Advisory Opinion on Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide (TiO2), a commonly used white pigment in paints and a variety of other products, is under review to establish a possible hazard classification under the European Union’s (EU) Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation (CLP). The CLP is an ongoing regulatory program to harmonise classifications of substances based on hazard properties (but does not consider the risk of human exposure). Classifications have implications across the EU for product labels, formulation restrictions and worker protection.

As part of this process, the European Chemicals Agency’s (ECHA) Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) issued an advisory opinion to the European Commission (EC) to classify TiO2 as a Category 2 (Animal Evidence) carcinogen via inhalation. The detailed rationale for this advisory opinion will be released in a few months, after which the European Commission will then consider and issue a final approved hazard classification. There is considerable industry concern that the basis for the opinion is flawed and does not inform on risk to humans. It is important to consider that the risks profiled are not attributable formulated products, like paint, where TiO2 dust is embedded in the mixture.

IPPIC (the International Paint and Printing Ink Council) has been working with members regarding this situation, and it is the conclusion of its member associations that any evaluation of TiO2 hazards should be based on sound science. CEPE (European Council of the Paint, Printing Ink and Artists' Colours Industry) have taken the lead on this, and have been in contact with high-level EU organisations, as well as multiple European national authorities.

The American Coatings Association have also recently filed a brief with the World Trade Organization (WTO) stating that classification as a carcinogen is not warranted and could unnecessarily constrain or even eliminate certain products from international trade. ACA coordinated its filing with the WTO through the U.S. Trade Representative, filing in conjunction with other trade associations.

Internationally, Paint Manufacturer Associations also support the position of the Titanium Dioxide Manufacturers Association (TDMA, see http://www.tdma.info/), which is heading the effort to advance sound science on the classification issue, working in concert with many downstream industries to ensure responsible use.

Below are links for more information:

ECHA Notification

TDMA (Titanium Dioxide Manufacturers Association)
• Website Link
• YouTube Video