Halogen Flame Retardant Restrictions Policy
What are halogen Flame Retardants?
Halogen flame retardants are a class of chemicals that contain halogens, such as chlorine, bromine or fluorine, which are either added to or react with materials to effectively retard flames and provide flammability protection to material.
Why restrict halogen flame retardants?
Flame retardants are a group of chemicals whose primary function is to reduce or delay the combustion rate of flammable materials, thereby enhancing their fire resistance. Halogen flame retardants are used in a variety of products, including electronics, furniture, textiles, building materials, and automotive components. However, due to the persistence of halogens in the environment and potential harmful effects on human health and ecosystems, there are growing concerns about their long-term negative impact to health, including cancer, endocrine disruption,
reproductive issues, and neurological disorders.
Is there a legal requirement to restrict Halogen flame retardants?
US Washington State legislation Chapter 173-337 WAC Safer Products Restrictions and Reporting and EU
Ecodesign Requirements for Electronic Displays, Regulation (EU) 2019/2021 restrict the use of halogen flame retardants in enclosures of electric and electronic products.
What is our policy?
The environmental implications of halogen flame retardant are proven and significant. Beyond meeting the requirement of legislations, we are taking a global approach to restrict and phase out the use of halogen flame retardants in enclosures and stands of products
While products are specifically required to meet flammability levels for safety compliance, the plastic enclosures must be replaced with halogen-free flame retardant resins such as those using phosphorus-based, nitrogen-based, or other non-halogenated flame retardants.
Impact product
Electric and electronic products
Policy Requirements
Not intentionally used halogen flame retardants in enclosures and stands
Verification threshold
In the homogeneous material:
-Total bromine
