Learn more about OneSource

Azo Dyes: European Standard EN 14362 for Detection of Banned Aromatic Amines Has Been Revised

Click for PDF version of Bulletin

Azo Dyes: European Standard EN 14362 for Detection of Banned Aromatic Amines Has Been Revised

The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has revised the test methods for the detection of certain aromatic amines derived from azo colorants, EN 14362 Part 1 and Part 2. Part 1 and 2 are combined in the revised standard. Guidance regarding samples and which test to apply as well as minor changes in the extraction process is also included in the revision. The new standard, EN 14362-1:2012, will be effective in August 2012.

Background
The Regulation EC 1907/2006 (REACH, Annex XVII) lists 22 aromatic amines that shall not be part of azo dyes used for textiles and leather articles which may come into direct and prolonged contact with the human skin or oral cavity. The European Standard EN 14362 provides methods to ensure the compliance of coloured products with this restriction.

The new Standard gives more detailed instructions on sampling and testing procedures. However, none of these changes will affect the number of detected amines or the allowed limits in products. Important aspects of the new Standard include:

Clarifications/Guidance:

General guidance on sampling
White samples do not require testing
Procedures for multi-coloured and multi-component garments
Procedure for composite testing (up to 3 colours may be tested together)
Special instructions in case of very small samples:

If the mass of a part is < 1 g, multiple parts of the same kind can be tested together as one material
Materials with a mass < 0.2 g don’t require testing

Changes in the Extraction Procedure:

Additional advice in case of incomplete extraction of azo dyes
Sodium hydroxide solution added after the reduction of azo dyes
More gentle concentration step without evaporation to dryness
Additional method for the identification of amines from colorants
Optional screening method included

Additional Information: http://esearch.cen.eu/esearch/ and search for “Standard reference": EN 14362.

Bureau Veritas Solutions and Services for REACH Compliance

Bureau Veritas offers a wide range of chemical management solutions to help you overcome the challenges of REACH. For assistance, visit – www.bureauveritas.de/cps, www.bureauveritas.fr/cps, www.bureauveritas.co.uk/cps, or email: cps-hamburg@de.bureauveritas.com

Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services, Inc. ("BVCPS") provides the information in this client bulletin as a resource of general information. It does not replace any applicable legal or regulatory requirements and is provided "as is." BVCPS will not be liable for any indirect, special, punitive, consequential or other damages (including without limitation lost profits) of any kind in connection with this client bulletin. BVCPS DISCLAIMS ALL REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, IN CONNECTION WITH THIS CLIENT BULLETIN.