The EU approved Decision 2009/425/EC on May 28, 2009 to further restrict the use of organotin compounds. According to the Decision, the EU will restrict the use of some organotin compounds in all consumer goods on and after July 1, 2010.

The new EU directive (2009/425/EC) focuses on the di- and tri- substituted organotin compounds due to their broad applications in the market, for example insoles for shoes, anti-microbial finishing in socks and sports clothes, additive added during production of polyurethane foam, as a stabilizer in production of PVC or as a catalyst in production of silicone etc. Organotin compounds have adverse effects on human health and the environment, so severe restrictions are imposed on articles containing organotin compounds.

With global network and world leading expertise, Intertek reminds you to pay special attention to Decision 2009/425/EC. The detailed requirements are listed as following:

* Excluding the materials and articles in direct contact with food regulated by 1935/2004, and other materials exempted before Jan 1, 2015.