Pic: (l-r) Andrew McClusky, managing director, BEP Surface Technologies and David Elliot, chief executive of the Surface Engineering AssociationBEP Surface Technologies has warned that gaps in the enforcement of chromium VI regulations could undermine both environmental protections and fair competition, one year after long-term authorisation was granted under UK REACH.
The Radcliffe-based surface engineering specialist, which serves sectors including manufacturing, aerospace, defence and packaging, said the effectiveness of the UK’s 12-year authorisation framework depends on consistent application across the market. Its concerns are echoed by the Surface Engineering Association (SEA), which represents 23 companies across the sector.
The authorisation, administered by the Health and Safety Executive, brought long-awaited certainty following disruption linked to the EU’s 2017 sunset deadline and the UK’s post-Brexit regulatory transition. However, BEP believes there are signs that not all operators are working within the approved framework.
Hexavalent chromium, or chromium VI, remains widely used in surface finishing for corrosion resistance and durability, but is tightly controlled due to its environmental and health risks.
Andrew McClusky, managing director of BEP Surface Technologies, said: “The authorisation process has removed a significant level of uncertainty and allowed businesses to focus on investment and long-term capability.
“However, that framework only works if it is applied consistently. Where operators fall outside it, this raises important questions about environmental risk, regulatory consistency, and fair competition.
“For those that have committed significant time and resources to achieving compliance, maintaining a level playing field is critical to the long-term stability of the sector.”
The authorisation process requires detailed submissions covering worker safety, emissions control and continuous improvement commitments, with approved companies subject to ongoing inspection and monitoring.
The SEA stressed that maintaining this level of scrutiny across the entire market is essential to preserve the credibility of the regime.
Dave Elliott, chief executive of the SEA, said: “For companies that have gone through the authorisation process, the requirements are rigorous and ongoing, covering operational controls, environmental safeguards and continuous monitoring.
“However, where operators are not working within the authorised framework, it creates a clear imbalance. Consistent enforcement is essential to maintaining both environmental protection and confidence across the sector.”
At the same time, divergence between UK and EU approaches is beginning to influence market dynamics. While the UK has created a defined authorisation pathway, the EU is moving towards a broader restriction model under REACH, creating uncertainty for European manufacturers.
This shift is already affecting supply chains, with UK operators reporting increased enquiries from European customers seeking long-term certainty around chrome plating capability.
BEP said the next phase for the sector will hinge on robust enforcement, regulatory clarity and how both UK and EU frameworks evolve.