Under the EU REACH regulations, products containing synthetic dyes must be evaluated by an azo textile testing laboratory to ensure the colorants are safe for consumers.

The legislation currently lists 22 regulated azo dyes or azo colorants that can potentially release hazardous chemicals (aromatic amines) when products containing them are used, disposed of, or recycled.

The azo directives aim to protect workers, consumers and the environment from exposure to the carcinogenic aromatic amines, some of which are known to cause cancer and pose other serious health risks if exposed to the skin, ingested or released into the environment.

Products regulated by azo directives

The REACH regulations cover a wide range of products that must be rigorously tested of AZO before being approved for manufacture or sale in the European Union. These include:

    • Fabrics and yarns for clothing and bedding, towels

    • Briefcases, handbags, purses/wallets, and wristwatch straps

    • Chair covers

    • Footwear

    • Gloves and hats

    • Hairpieces

    • Jewelry

    • Leather

    • Nappies and other sanitary items

    • Permanent cosmetics and tattoo inks

    • Toys

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