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In recent developments, a shoe manufacturer based in Yuyao, Ningbo, faced a major compliance issue when its leather safety boots were flagged by the European Union for exceeding the permissible levels of hexavalent chromium. The non-compliant material involved was the auxiliary leather supplied by an upstream supplier. Investigations revealed that the company failed to conduct proper material inspections upon purchase, which led to the violation.
According to data from the EU's Non-Food Rapid Alert System (RAPEX), there have been 11 notifications related to leather products since the beginning of this year. Out of these, 10 were specifically about excessive hexavalent chromium levels in leather materials. Among them, 7 concerned footwear and 3 referred to gloves. These repeated incidents serve as a clear warning for leather product exporters, emphasizing the need for stricter quality control measures.
Hexavalent chromium is a highly toxic substance that can be harmful when ingested or inhaled. It can enter the body through the digestive system, respiratory tract, skin, and mucous membranes. Prolonged skin contact may lead to allergic reactions, with even low concentrations—such as 3 mg/kg—being enough to trigger sensitization. Moreover, it poses serious health risks, including genetic damage and an increased risk of cancer upon inhalation. Its environmental impact is also long-lasting, making it a critical concern for both consumers and manufacturers.
The regulation of hexavalent chromium in leather products has been in place for several years. In December 2011, the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) introduced the updated standard EN ISO 20345:2011, which set a limit of 3 mg/kg for hexavalent chromium in safety footwear. This rule became effective in June 2012. Later, on March 26, 2014, the European Commission revised Annex 17 of the REACH Regulation, extending restrictions on hexavalent chromium in leather products. According to the updated regulations, the content of hexavalent chromium in leather parts that come into direct contact with the skin must not exceed 3 mg/kg. This applies to a wide range of products, including shoes, clothing, accessories, and toys. The new rules came into effect on May 1, 2015.
With the EU tightening its control over hexavalent chromium in leather products, manufacturers must adapt quickly to avoid disruptions in their export operations. To stay compliant, companies are advised to first understand and implement the EU’s requirements for hexavalent chromium, integrating green standards into their production processes. Second, they should enhance the quality control of raw materials, ensuring regular testing for hexavalent chromium. Third, maintaining strict storage and transportation conditions for both raw materials and finished goods is essential to prevent the conversion of trivalent chromium into its more dangerous form. Finally, investing in new technologies and innovative processes can help companies meet evolving regulatory demands and remain competitive in the global market.
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