Chromium
BCA member companies are fully compliant with the chromium (VI)
Directive which came into effect on 17 January 2005 and applies to
cement and cement-containing preparations. One of the most
important issues for the cement industry and its customers is the
introduction of a limited storage period shelf-life for cement.
The new Directive is designed to minimise the risk of chromate
related allergic dermatitis that can arise from the unprotected use
of cement. This only applies to wet cement and it is safe to touch
concrete and other structures containing cement. UK cement
manufacturers ensure that their cements have levels of soluble
chromium (VI) when water is added that are no more than two parts
per million by mass of the dry cement.
To achieve this standard, small amounts of a reducing agent are
added where necessary to control the quantity of soluble chromium.
As the reducing agent is only active for a limited period, it is
necessary to declare a shelf life for cement during which the very
low level of chromium (VI) is maintained. The reducing agent has an
insignificant effect on cement performance.
Safety is one of the industry's core values and UK cement
manufacturers have voluntarily been displaying a health warning on
bags and delivery documents for years, stating that cement contains
chromium (VI). In preparing to comply with chromium (VI)
legislation, the cement industry, led by the BCA, was involved in
widespread consultations with the Health and Safety Executive and
customers. More than £10 million was invested in capital
equipment to ensure that the industry complied with the regulations
in full. In addition, a BCA Task Force developed a range of
fact sheets to assist customers and users of chromium (VI) reduced
cements.
The industry stresses that despite these measures, personal
protective equipment should always be worn and the correct safety precautions taken.