1. Key points
Based on the type and concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), tar pitch and tar oils such as anthracene oil meet the criteria specified in Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (REACH Regulation) for persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) substances. The provisions of Annex 1.15 are designed to keep off the market tar-containing products in applications where use and/or disposal leads to environmental releases of PAH.
2. Prohibitions
It is prohibited to place on the market the following tar-containing preparations if they contain more than 100 mg PAH per kilogram (overall limit for EPA PAH):
- products for surface dressing of paved surfaces, e.g. tar emulsions used as oil- and petrol‑resistant pavement coatings for petrol stations, parking areas, handling areas, works yards or airports;
- joint sealants for paved surfaces, e.g. for fuel handling areas or for open or covered parking areas at airports;
- paints and varnishes, e.g. used as protective coatings for concrete and steel (e.g. pressure pipelines).
It is also prohibited:
- to place on the market tar-containing clay pigeons that contain more than 30 mg PAH per kilogram;
- to manufacture surfacings, such as foundation, base, binder and surface courses, using tar‑containing binders, if the latter contain more than 100 mg PAH per kilogram.
