CMR investigations
According to the regulations in the document Chemical Hazards in the Work Environment (AFS 2011: 19) section 39, a CMR product may only be used if there is a documented investigation into the possibility of replacement with a less dangerous product.
The CMR investigation must state if it is possible to replace the product. CMR-rated products are listed with the following hazard statements / risk phrases:
H350: May cause cancer
H340: May cause genetic defects
H360: May damage fertility or the unborn child.
Older, today not approved labels can be seen:
R 45: May cause cancer
R46: May cause heritable genetic damage
R49: May cause cancer by inhalation
R60: May cause impaired fertility
R61: May cause birth defects
These may soon have new labels according to CLP demands.
The investigation must be completed for all CMR chemicals, regardless of the quantity used. Investigations should involve seeking alternatives from several suppliers. The CMR investigation form can be downloaded here: Investigation for CMR chemicals (docx 55 kB) .
If there is no alternative to the CMR product, a risk assessment must always be completed prior to use. The KLARA risk assessment module, identifies if any of the chemicals in your protocol are CMR chemicals. In addition, the following information must be included in your risk assessment:
- Where will the CMR chemical be used?
- What protective measures are necessary to ensure minimal exposure?
- In what situations is personal protective equipment required?
- How the operation and function of equipment, processes or ventilation shall be monitored in order to detect early deviations?