n-Hexane added to the Candidate List
The EU Candidate List has expanded again – and this time, n-hexane is in focus. In the same update, ECHA also added 4,4'-[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]diphenol and its salts (commonly referred to as Bisphenol AF) due to toxic effects on reproduction. Companies handling either substance should assess their compliance obligations without delay.
n-Hexane is not an exotic substance. It is a commonly used solvent in manufacturing, laboratories, and formulation processes. Its inclusion on the Candidate List therefore raises practical questions beyond regulatory theory. So, what actually changes once a substance becomes an SVHC?
Implications
When a substance is added to the Candidate List, it immediately triggers new obligations under REACH. These may include:
- updates to Safety Data Sheets (SDS),
- communication duties along the supply chain,
- potential notification obligations,
…and (maybe most importantly) strategic internal reviews of substance use
For substances used in articles, additional communication requirements and SCIP implications must also be considered.
Candidate List inclusion also signals something more strategic: the substance may eventually move to the Authorisation List (Annex XIV). That means companies should already be thinking ahead — about substitution, continued use, or long-term compliance planning. Analysis of Alternatives will definitely come into play.
Authorisation or substitution?
The key decision is rarely immediate — but it should not be postponed. Should you begin evaluating alternatives now? Is your use potentially critical? Would an Authorisation strategy even be viable if the substance progresses further in the regulatory process?
What now?
As n-hexane is used widely, its inclusion will affect multiple sectors. We therefore recommend to review where and how n-hexane is used in your processes, assess exposure and risk management measures, check supply-chain communication, and start mapping possible alternatives. And — start as soon as possible.
Let's talk n-hexane on the Candidate List
On 19 February 2026, REGARTIS experts discussed Candidate List as a whole and how the inclusion of n-hexane may turn out — who and what will be affected, how will obligations regarding n-hexane change, and how it connects to Authorisation, Restriction, and supply-chain communication. If your company uses n-hexane, Bisphenol AF, or other substances that face similar scrutiny, this session will help you clarify your next steps.
Watch the recording
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