What is the Cadmium Directive?
The total amount of cadmium allowed in consumer products is stated in EU Directive 91/338/EEC. The directive restricts the use of cadmium in pigments, as a stabiliser in plastics and as a coating of metallic plates and surfaces.
What are the limits for Cadmium under the directive?
The directive requires the cadmium content of plastic, paint and polymer stabilizer not exceed 0.01 % (100ppm) by mass, whatever their use or intended final purpose, finished products or components of products manufactured from the substances and preparations.
In addition to this, the directive prohibits the placing on the market of cadmium plated products or components used in: equipment and machinery for food production, agriculture, cooling and freezing, printing and book binding, the production of household goods, furniture, sanitary ware, central heating, paper and board, textiles and clothing.
How do I comply with the Cadmium Directive?
In order to ensure that your products are compliant with the Cadmium directive they should be tested by an independent laboratory to ensure that cadmium is not present at levels above the maximum concentration limits.
Why do I need to comply with the Directive?
Cadmium and its compounds are generally considered to be carcinogenic by most health and safety agencies. It is important to ensure that your products are compliant in order to protect the health and safety of the consumer, as well as to avoid damage to your business in terms of cost, withdrawals from the market and reputation.