Recently, the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) announced that a chemical substance called Diisohexyl phthalate may be added to the UK REACH Authorisation List. This news has drawn attention from chemical producers and users, as well as prompted environmentalists and the public to reflect on chemical management policies and their impact on human health and the environment.

Diisohexyl phthalate is a phthalate compound with the chemical formula C26H42O4 and a molecular weight of 410.61. Under GB CLP, it is uniformly classified as Reproductive Toxicity 1B, H360F, indicating potential harm to reproductive systems. Although no UK-REACH registrations exist for this substance in the UK market, DUIN notifications suggest it may be imported from the EU. Due to limited usage data, it is considered a potential substitute for other phthalates (e.g., as a plasticizer in polymers) already recommended or included in the Authorisation List.

Step 1: Preliminary Assessment

In this phase, HSE scores substances based on intrinsic properties, market tonnage, and broad applications. With limited UK REACH data, HSE also references European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) data for preliminary assessments.

Step 2: Detailed Assessment

In the second phase, HSE refines its evaluation to determine whether identified uses minimally safeguard human and ecological health. Additionally, it considers whether alternatives to authorisation exist for better substance control.

Step 3: Final Adjustment

In the final stage, HSE gathers supplementary information (e.g., technical and economic feasibility of alternatives) for final assessment adjustments.

After HSE published its draft recommendation to include diisohexyl phthalate in the UK REACH Authorisation List, stakeholders and the public were invited to participate in the decision-making process. Stakeholders had three months from the drafts release to submit comments on consequences, alternatives, and exemptions. Following review, HSE will update the draft and forward it to relevant authorities (e.g., Defra) for final determination.

The UK HSEs action demonstrates its determination and responsibility in chemical management to ensure the safe use of chemicals, protecting human health and the environment. The public participation and multi-party evaluation in this process also ensure the scientific and fair nature of the policy. With the potential inclusion of diisohexyl phthalate in the UK REACH authorization list, relevant industries and the public should pay close attention to ensure a balance of interests and chemical safety.