New additional REACH regulation

REACH is a European regulation around the production and trade of chemicals. REACH stands for: Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. These predefined directives and regulations apply to all countries in the European Union. A new additional REACH directive concerning PU products has been adopted to better protect human health and the environment against risks from chemicals.

This regulation focuses mainly on respiratory and dermal allergic reactions, possibly caused by diisocyanates. Diisocyanates are a group of chemicals found in paints and inks, lacquers, coatings and adhesives, among others. You will also find these chemicals in polyurethane hoof care adhesives. With the certificate, the European Union wants to ensure that everyone knows what they are working with and how to handle these products sustainably and safely.

PU training should be refreshed every five years. This ensures that users’ knowledge is always up-to-date in the correct use of polyurethane foam, PU sealant and PU wood glue. This protects them from potential risks in everyday work. An important note: employers have a duty of proof. They must document that their employees have successfully participated in safety training.