Upcoming deadline for diisocyanates training

On 3rd August 2020, the European Union announced that all industrial and professional users of diisocyanates must receive diisocyanates training by 24^th August 2023. This requirement was later retained in British law under GB Retained: Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). The Compliance People Consultant Katie Pritchard looks at this important change.

What are diisocyanates?

Diisocyanates are commonly used in coatings, adhesives, foams and sealants and are restricted under Annex XVII (‘the Restriction list’) of REACH.

Diisocyanates are considered harmful to human health and are classed as respiratory and skin sensitisers and potential human carcinogens. Exposure can also cause occupational asthma and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin.

Training requirements

From 24^th August 2023, all industrial and professional users of diisocyanates must receive general training on the safe use of diisocyanates.

This training must be repeated every 5 years and training records must be retained.

General training must cover:

• chemistry of diisocyanates;
• volatility;
• viscosity, temperature and molecular weight of diisocyanates;
• risks involved;
• exposure to diisocyanates;
• occupational exposure limit values;
• toxicity hazards;
• how sensitisation can develop;
• odour as an indicator of hazard;
• personal protective equipment and instructions for correct use;
• ventilation;
• skin and inhalation protection schemes;
• discarding of empty packaging;
• cleaning, leakages and maintenance;
• protection of bystanders; and
• behaviour based safety and good working practices (e.g. good personal hygiene).

Additional training

Certain users of diisocyanates must also receive intermediate and advanced training.

Intermediate training is required for users who:

• handle open mixtures at ambient temperature;
• spray diisocyanates in a ventilated booth;
• apply diisocyanates by roller or brush;
• apply diisocyanates by dripping and pouring;
• are involved in the mechanical post treatment of products; and
• handle waste diisocyanates.

Advanced training is required for users who:

• handle incompletely cured products;
• apply diisocyanates in a foundry;
• maintain and repair equipment containing diisocyanates;
• spray diisocyanates in open air or at high energy; and
• handle diisocyanates at temperatures exceeding 45°C.

In summary

All industrial and professional users of diisocyanates must receive general training on the safe use of diisocyanates by 24^th August 2023. This training must be repeated every 5 years and training records must be retained.

Certain users of diisocyanates may also be required to receive intermediate or advanced training.

If you need more help, why not get in touch with us? – Our professional team of consultants offer independent, periodic compliance evaluations and support for both environment and health & safety.