The Radcliffe-based electroplating expert is part of a consortium of 23 companies, led by the Surface Engineering Association (SEA), that has secured a crucial 12-year authorisation from DEFRA for the continued use of Chromium Trioxide and Chrome 6.
Long-Term Regulatory Certainty for BEP Surface Technologies
The authorisation explicitly covers the hard chromium electroplating of engineering components, ensuring that BEP Surface Technologies can continue providing high-performance coatings vital to key sectors such as manufacturing, aerospace, nuclear, packaging, defence, automotive, and precision engineering.
Crucially, the decision provides long-term regulatory certainty, safeguarding businesses, jobs, and the broader UK manufacturing supply chain.
Significance of the Decision for BEP Surface Technologies
Andrew McClusky, Managing Director at BEP Surface Technologies, emphasised the significance of this decision: "This represents a paradigm shift for BEP Surface Technologies and the entire industry. The past decade has been fraught with uncertainty, and this decision enables us to concentrate on innovation, investment, and providing top-quality solutions for our clients. Securing this 12-year approval was vital for various industries that depend on our expertise in surface engineering. This is a significant vote of confidence in UK engineering.”
Importance of Chrome 6 in Manufacturing and Engineering
Chrome 6’s unmatched durability and precision make it vital in various applications, including chrome plating for manufacturing and heavy industries, stainless steel production, textile dyes, pigments, corrosion inhibitors, and leather tanning.
However, it has faced heightened regulatory scrutiny due to its toxic and carcinogenic characteristics, considering the health risks and environmental impact.
Impact of Brexit on the Surface Engineering Sector
Brexit reshaped the UK’s chemical regulations, particularly impacting the surface engineering sector’s use of chromium VI (Chrome 6). Previously governed by EU REACH, the UK established UK REACH, overseen by DEFRA, which introduced different timelines and authorisation processes. Meanwhile, the EU is moving towards stricter restrictions, aiming to limit Chrome 6 to "essential use" only. This divergence strengthens UK companies, ensuring continued supply chain stability while EU manufacturers face uncertainty.
The SEA REACH consortium was pivotal in securing this authorisation, which aims to navigate a balance between safety and industrial innovation.
Compliance and Safety Measures for BEP Surface Technologies
The consent requires strict adherence to safety and environmental conditions, including air and biological monitoring, exposure control measures, and risk management improvements. Companies must also comply with specific requirements, such as monitoring personal exposure and enhanced protective measures for workers handling chromium trioxide.
David Elliott, Chief Executive of SEA, said: “This is a landmark achievement for the UK surface engineering sector. The SEA REACH Consortium was established in response to an urgent need for regulatory clarity. In an incredibly short time, we have navigated a steep learning curve to deliver an outstanding outcome.
“This endorsement gives our industry the business certainty we need and guarantees ongoing compliance with rigorous environmental and health safeguards. We have obtained six consents, with one additional decision awaiting, illustrating what can be accomplished when an industry unites to tackle a shared challenge. Without this approval, we would have encountered significant disruptions across the UK supply chain. Companies faced significant operational disruptions, possible closures, and financial losses estimated at £35.7 million.”
Regulatory Concerns and Impact on EU Competitors
While the industry celebrates this milestone, concerns persist regarding the regulatory process. A recent Best Available Techniques (BAT) workshop aimed at preventing or reducing emissions and environmental impacts has underscored a lack of sector-specific expertise within government bodies.
Elliott added, “Companies in our industry that operate without the required regulatory approvals and proper due diligence will encounter intense scrutiny and the risk of shutdowns."
UK Companies Positioned Stronger Than EU Counterparts
The decision also positions UK companies like BEP Surface Technologies ahead of their EU counterparts, who still face regulatory uncertainty.
The European Commission has asked the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to prepare a report on Chrome 6. The goal is to restrict its use to only "essential" purposes. The deadline, originally set for October 2024, has been pushed to April 2025.
McClusky commented: “With many companies applying for individual agreements, ECHA is overwhelmed, leading to concerns about restrictions that could significantly impact European manufacturers.
“This decision places UK companies in a significantly stronger position than their EU counterparts, where uncertainty continues to disrupt business planning. BEP Surface Technologies and other UK firms can now proceed confidently while many of our European counterparts remain in regulatory limbo.”
