EN.pdf

Good Practice Sheet for Uses of Chromates provides guidance for employers to comply with EU Directive 2004/37 and REACH authorizations, aiming to reduce exposure to chromates, which may cause cancer. The sheet covers maintenance activities of equipment or tools contaminated with hexavalent chromium, including infrequent maintenance and repair of filters from paint shops, and maintenance of tools contaminated with chrome dust. Key points include:

Equipment design and access: full access to components, specific risk assessment, and permit to work system
Chromates emissions: potential exposure to chromate dust on equipment surfaces, residual material in pumps or pipes
Risk management measures for workers: permit-to-work system, surface cleaning, replaced parts decontamination, access control
Risk management measures for environment: air extraction system, wastewater treatment, waste disposal
Personal protective equipment (PPE): protective eye goggles, gloves, clothing, mask
Training and supervision: instruction on risks, safe management, and use of PPE
Monitoring: adequate data to evidence low exposure levels, expert input
Other relevant good practice sheets are available, including GPS E1 and E2.