The Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) resumed their evaluation of the EU-wide proposal to limit per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The two committees held their first sessions of the year, making tentative findings on the use of fluorinated gases. SEAC is set to continue discussions on this issue during its June meeting, while RAC reached preliminary conclusions regarding energy and transportation sectors.

Upcoming Sector Evaluations

The committees outlined their evaluation plans for upcoming meetings, including a focus on the following sectors in June 2025:

• Medical Devices (RAC and SEAC)
• Lubricants (RAC and SEAC)
• Transport (SEAC continues)
• Energy (SEAC continues)
• Electronics and Semiconductors (introductory discussion in RAC)

Following June, the committees will focus on Electronics and Semiconductors and remaining applications of PFAS.

Harmonized Classification and Labeling Opinions

RAC also adopted 13 opinions on harmonized classification and labeling, including significant updates:

• Silver Nitrate: RAC recommended adding new classifications for reproductive toxicity (Category 1B) and carcinogenicity (Category 2) in nine hazard classes.
• Synthetic Amorphous Silica: RAC recommended a new classification for this substance, acknowledging its potential to cause damage to the respiratory tract through prolonged or repeated inhalation exposure.

These developments reflect the ongoing EU efforts to assess and regulate substances like PFAS in various industries.

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