Downstream Users

Precious metals are regulated under the EU’s chemicals legislation, including the REACH revision.

If your company uses precious metals in any industrial or professional processes, you must ensure their safe handling in line with REACH (the EU regulation for the registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction of chemicals).

REACH requires safe handling of chemicals throughout the supply chain, and industry must demonstrate this is possible through the submission of REACH registration dossiers for all substances and their uses.

The EPMF has completed many registration dossiers for substances used by members, including their known uses and related exposure scenarios (ES) when necessary. This information is shared with downstream users via extended Safety Data Sheets (eSDS). As a Downstream User of precious metals, you must:

• Receive and review the eSDS for each substance you use.
• Confirm your use is covered in the eSDS.
• Ensure the conditions for safe use are implemented at your site.

If your use isn’t covered, contact your supplier or the EPMF to update the Exposure Scenarios.

You can find current substance lists, identified uses and Exposure Scenarios on our [Substances page]. If you are a downstream user of precious metals and have any questions about certain substances or EU regulations, please contact the EPMF Secretariat for more information.