HSE consults over ending ban on paint strippers

There is currently an EU ban on the use of DCM (dichloromethane), a hazardous chemical used in some types of paint strippers.

The ban, under the EU’s Reach regulations, means that professionals and members of the public are prohibited from using DCM paint strippers, even though they are permitted for industrial users with specific safety safeguards.

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) consultation is now asking for public responses to the possibility of the UK applying for an exemption to the ban on the professional use of DCM paint strippers. If the UK decides to take up this exemption, it will need to make arrangements to ensure that DCM paint strippers are safely used by professionals.

The HSE has set a 3 January 2014 deadline for responses to its proposal on lifting the ban.

The ban on the use of DCM-based paint strippers by the general public will continue.

The HSE has published information about DCM-based paint strippers which are particularly effective at removing very durable coatings including leaded paint, quickly and without damaging the surface on which it is applied.

Along with normal paint stripping, DCM-based strippers are widely used in the heritage, aerospace and maritime sectors and for graffiti removal.

www.hse.gov.uk/consult/condocs/cd265.htm