Government department lead

HSE

Main provisions

The proposal is for:

1. a ban on the placing on the market of dichloromethane (DCM)-based paint strippers for use by consumers;
2. a ban on the placing on the market of DCM-based paint strippers for use by professionals, with the option for Member States to permit continued use subject to certain conditions;
3. additional safety measures for the use of DCM-based paint strippers in industrial installations;
4. improved labelling of DCM-based paint strippers.

Latest developments

The final text of the Decision was agreed in a "first reading deal" between the Council and the European Parliament. The Decision was adopted in April 2009 and will be published in the Official Journal later this year.

Next steps

The final text of the Decision has been agreed in a "first reading deal" between the Council and the European Parliament. The Decision will be adopted and published in the Official Journal later this year.

The placing on the market of DCM-based paint strippers for supply to the general public or professionals is due to cease 2 years and 6 months after the Decision enters into force. Use of these products by professionals is due to cease 6 months later, although Member State authorities can derogate from this restriction allowing, subject to conditions, continued supply to, and use by   competent professional users in their territories.