DCM Paint Stripper Ban Count Down
DCM in paint strippers banned
EU rules banning paint strippers containing dichloromethane (DCM) for consumer use will enter force on Saturday 6 June 2009 following publication in the EU’s official Journal.
Under the rules, products intended to be put on the market for the first time will be banned from 6 December 2010. The ban will apply to all products from 6 December 2011 and applies to paint strippers containing DCM concentrations equal or greater than 0,1% by weight.
Professional uses will be banned from 6 June 2012 but member states can apply for derogations for licensed professionals who will be allowed to use DCM in strippers under strict conditions. The EU Commission will publish a list of countries that have applied for derogations.
The rules on DCM in paint strippers were agreed by EU lawmakers in December and backed up by the European Parliament in January. MEPs had wanted a blanket ban on professional uses but some member states lead by the UK were opposed to this. Decisions adopted Jointly by the EU Parliament and the Council / Decision No 455/2009/EC on 6 May 2009 amending Council Directive 76/769/EEC as regards restriction on the marketing and use of dichloromethane.
Incidents with Dichlormethane DCM paint stripping has long been a matter of concern to institutions and organisations involved with occupational safety. Up until 2002, the common (yet mistaken) belief was that although this form of paint stripping was considered dangerous, there had not been many severe accidents. In fact, it was only the fatal accident of a decorator in London, on 5 April 2002, which raised concern and created the desire to gain a better understanding of incidents involving DCM. In the meantime, several work safety groups have started research, and, in the shortest of time, have been able to compile a longer list of recorded incidents than many had previously expected.
Smart Graffiti products have always been formulated without the use of DCM and the move is welcomed as a proactive approach in reducing the damage caused to surfaces, people and the environment by the use of such detrimental products