Lead Replacement Mini Symposium
Happy New Year. May 2025 give us the brightest colours in all seasons!
Thank you to all who attended our Lead Replacement mini symposium which was held on the 31st of October 2024. Special thanks to our technical industry experts for their presentations on the various topics.
The symposium provided valuable insights into the dangers of using lead in various applications and highlighting effective solutions. The topics covered were timely, relevant and impactful, offering practical knowledge for addressing lead exposure risks and exploring alternatives.
Listed below are some highlights on the different topics.
1. Dangers of Using Lead in Paint (Phil Green – Paint Technologist – DPPL):
The session was informative, presented by Phil Green who has 40 years’ industry experience. The serious health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly for children and vulnerable populations, were highlighted. The emphasis on the long-term environmental and health consequences of using lead-based paint reinforced the importance of finding safer alternatives. The audience gained a clearer understanding of the urgency of removing lead from residential and public spaces considering that the new regulation was published in May 2024 under the Hazardous Substances Act, 1973.
2. Solutions for Lead Replacement in Paint (Preshinee Reddy – Brenntag SA)
This session provided a comprehensive overview of viable, non-toxic alternatives to lead-based paints. Preshinee Reddy showcased new, innovative formulating guides and technologies that are both environmentally friendly and safe. The information on regulatory standards certification processes and cost considerations for switching to lead-free paints was particularly helpful for industry professionals looking to transition away from lead use.
3. Lead Exposure Elimination Project (Yujin Han – LEEP).
We were joined by LEEP – a non governmental organization which aims to reduce lead exposure in low and medium income countries through reformulation support. Emphasis on this subject was the discussion around lead exposure elimination, reformulating studies & monitoring projects. Case studies from different regions of successful lead remediation initiatives were shared, demonstrating the positive outcomes when communities and organizations prioritize lead elimination. The strategies discussed for identifying and removing lead hazards were practical and actionable, motivating attendees to brainstorm how these could be implemented.
4. Lead Replacement in Road Markings (Nthabiseng Mdikwa – AECI – Coatings , Inks & Plastics).
This session addressed the significant challenge of using safer alternatives for lead-based road markings. Experts provided an overview of new materials that are durable, cost-effective, and safe for both workers and the environment.
The exploration of these alternatives was highly relevant to the transportation sector and municipalities. A key highlight of the seminar was the discussion around lead exposure.
In conclusion, the mini symposium was a great success in raising awareness about the dangers of lead and providing practical solutions for its replacement. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of the health risks and were equipped with knowledge on how to transition to lead-free alternatives in various industries. The symposium fostered valuable discussions on possible actions by industry players to take action towards creating safer environments for future generations.
Key Outcomes:
Lead Replacement Facts For SA
- Total Lead Concentration in paints must be <0.009% or <90ppm or 90mg/kg.
- Sunset date to comply is 17 May 2025 and labelling compliance by 17 May 2026.
- Label statements of “No Lead” or “Lead Safe” or any statement creating the impression that the product does not have any lead is prohibited.
- Statement must read “Complies with the South Africa legal lead limit of 90ppm or less”.
- Labels must also have pictograms and precautionary statements to comply with GHS.
- Testing for lead – Annex B contains test methods but is not limited to this – if a manufacturer has an inhouse method that is approved, then it can be used.
Summary:
- Lead legislation sunset date 17 May 2025.
- Labelling sunset date 17 May 2026.
- Lead is not a direct drop in or 1:1 replacement.
- Possible to reformulate lead chromate shades with organic and inorganic combinations depending on requirements.
Note that the mini symposium presentations are available on request to all our members.
For membership information, please inquire with Bev bev@jabelo.co.za
We look forward to your participation in 2025.
Sabelo Dladla
Chairperson – OCCA Northern Section