Mandatory training for polyurethane (PU) products

A new restriction on diisocyanates was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 4 August 2020. These regulations target respiratory and skin sensitization, which can be caused by diisocyanates, and require training before using affected products containing diisocyanates.

To ensure that users can continue to work safely with diisocyanates, new training requirements will become mandatory from 24 August 2023, and every five years thereafter, for professional and industrial applicators of products with a total concentration of diisocyanate monomers greater than 0.1%.

What does this restriction mean?

• The need for correct product labelling
• The products concerned placed on the market from 24 February 2022 must bear a clearly visible reference to the training obligation on the label.

User training

By August 24, 2023, all commercial or industrial users of products containing diisocyanates must complete application training, and then receive a certificate authorizing further use.

Where can I take these training courses?

ISOPA/ALIPA and a number of industry partners are organizing a comprehensive training programme to ensure the safe use of diisocyanates for manufacturers and professional users. The courses offered are currently available in English and German. By the end of June 2022, the training platform will also be available in Dutch, Italian, Spanish and French. All EU languages will be available by the end of 2022.

Join your training here - Free with code FEICA_21_C24

FEICA (Federation of European Adhesives and Sealants Industry) also provides additional information and access to training materials in English.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is the use of diisocyanates safe?

Like any other substance, diisocyanates can be used safely, if these chemicals are handled in accordance with relevant risk management and safety measures. It is also important to note that diisocyanates are not found in finished products. Diisocyanates are only used as reactive chemicals, which means that they react with the polyol to form the PU product and are used during this process.

What does "respiratory sensitization" mean?

Sensitization means that a person may have an allergic reaction to the substance after exposure. If sensitized, the person may have a strong allergic reaction with respiratory effects (for example, asthma) whenever they come into contact with the substance (even at very low concentrations). The majority of people with diisocyanate-related asthma experience improvement or complete recovery after stopping exposure.

I am a reseller/distributor. What must I do?

Share the information you receive from your product supplier with your customers.

What is the status of polyurethane-based products for DIY superstore (GSB) consumers?

The new regulation only applies to manufacturers and businesses intended for professionals. A separate restriction for FMCG/DIY products already came into effect a few years ago.

When does this regulation come into force?

The new regulation was adopted on August 4, 2020 and entered into force on August 24, 2020. By August 24, 2023, all users of PU products will be required to be trained and certified.

When do I need to update my packaging label?

The legal requirements must appear on the packaging of the products concerned placed on the market after 24 February 2022 as single substances, as constituents of other substances or in mixtures for industrial and professional use. In other words, products manufactured from 24 February 2022 onwards must bear this labelling.

That information is set out in paragraph 2 of the Annex to Regulation (EU) 2020/1149 as regards diisocyanates, which amends Annex XVII of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH).

Will PU products still be marketed?

The restriction is intended to prevent unsafe handling of diisocyanates, not to limit product availability. Due to their unique properties in many applications, PU products will continue to be widely available.