Chromium(VI) - current status

Until adequate substitutes are available, OT Schwerin also needs this exemption to meet the requirements of its customers. For this purpose, OT has joined a supplier consortium (CTAC Sub2) as downstream user with the common goal of extending the exemption permits, which are currently valid until September 2024.

Coating materials containing chromium(VI) may only be processed in compliance with strong protective actions and with annual measurements of workplace and emission concentrations. OT Schwerin takes this obligation and responsibility towards our employees very seriously. Coating is carried out exclusively in enclosed paint booths with filtered exhaust ventilation. Wearing a protective suit and a respirator hood is mandatory. The annual concentration measurements are carried out at OT Schwerin by experts from TÜV NORD. In addition to the prescribed measuring points, the concentration inside the respirator hood is also measured to ensure that the protective actions are effective.

At the same time, tests with various chromium(VI)-free coating materials are regularly carried out on behalf of our customers, with the goal of ensuring that a viable replacement product is available in the near future.