(ZEK), the PAH-substance list was expanded from 16 to 18 PAHs. The

addition of these two PAHs to the substance list completes the German

recommendation to restrict the eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)

in consumer goods. Therefore, in the future there will be requirements for

18 PAHs to fulfill in order to receive the German GS mark.

Background

During the manufacturing process of plastics, mineral oils are used that often contain polycyclic

aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as contaminants. PAHs also can be part of carbon black which is

used as a colouring and filling agent for plastics and rubber.

Apart from other requirements, there are currently requirements for 16 PAHs which have to be

fulfilled for the GS mark to be granted. During the 67th meeting of the ZEK on September 28th and

29th, an expansion of the PAH-substance list suggested by the Commission for Technical Work

Equipment and Consumer Goods (AtAV) was accepted, increasing the list of PAHs from 16 to 18

substances. The two new substances are Benzo[j]fluoranthene and Benzo[e]pyrene. These

substances are, among others, named for regulation under REACH, but have not been regarded so

far in the context of the GS mark.

After the official publishing of this expansion by the Central Department of the Federal States for

Safety Features (ZLS), there will be a transition period of six months after which the two new

substances will have to be taken into account during the granting of the GS mark.

Note: In addition, Germany also sent a recommendation to the European Commission about the

restriction of the eight PAHs through REACH in June 2010. However, the list of the 16 PAHs and

those suggested by Germany were not identical and are still under consideration.

UPDATED PAH-SUBSTANCE LIST