Certification under QCVN 8:2020/BCT – Limits on lead content in paints has been effective since July 1, 2022. This regulation is a mandatory requirement for businesses dealing in paint products before they are released to the market.

What is lead content in paints according to QCVN 8:2020/BCT certification?

Lead content in paints refers to the percentage by mass of lead calculated as metallic lead (Pb), existing in elemental or compound forms within paints or surface coatings, determined according to the test methods specified in QCVN 8:2020/BCT.

Certification under QCVN 8:2020/BCT is mandatory to ensure that lead content in paints meets standards before circulation in the Vietnamese market.

Paint plays an important role and its true value lies in providing decorative and protective coatings. Even a thin layer of paint, only a few fractions of a millimeter thick, can prevent deterioration of structures such as corrosion, temperature effects, and chemical erosion.

Harmful effects when not complying with QCVN 8:2020/BCT certification

Although paints bring significant practical benefits, failure to comply with QCVN 8:2020/BCT certification during production, import, or trading can cause serious adverse effects on human health and the environment.

Impact on workers' health

During paint production or finishing processes, if lead content is not controlled, it may cause complex and widespread damage to multiple organs and systems in the human body, including the hematopoietic system, musculoskeletal system, cognitive functions, kidneys, urinary system, and even cancer.

Impact on public health

Although paint production technology exists in Vietnam, many facilities still fail to meet output standards, with lead content exceeding permissible limits (>600 ppm). Such products pose significant risks to public health.

Children are particularly vulnerable due to weaker immunity and higher susceptibility to lead poisoning from multiple sources such as leaded gasoline, environmental pollution, etc., which may lead to respiratory diseases and cancer.

Additionally, exposure to VOCs (volatile organic compounds) during paint formation can easily occur due to their high volatility. Inhalation of high concentrations of VOCs can irritate the respiratory tract, especially for individuals with sinusitis or asthma.

Long-term exposure among paint workers using products with excessive lead or mercury content may result in blood lead levels (µg/dl) exceeding safe limits.

Impact on the environment

The paint manufacturing industry significantly affects environmental quality due to the presence of hazardous chemical waste.

Tributyltin, commonly used in industrial paints, is highly toxic and dangerous to aquatic life.

During production, carbon emissions and volatile organic compounds also contribute to ozone layer depletion.

Objectives of QCVN 8:2020/BCT certification

The certification aims to:

• Ensure product safety for users and prevent adverse impacts on human health and the environment
• Reduce lead toxicity affecting vital organs such as blood, bones, cardiovascular system, brain, and kidneys
• Minimize occupational hazards and improve worker health in paint production
• Reduce environmental pollution in air, soil, and water

Scope of application

Applicable to:

• Organizations and individuals manufacturing paints
• Importers and traders of paint products
• State management agencies and relevant organizations/individuals

QCVN 8:2020/BCT Certification Services at ISSQ Institute

ISSQ Institute is an independent and reputable certification body.

• Professional team: Highly qualified experts with extensive experience in testing and certification of construction materials
• Cost-effective: Transparent, reasonable procedures and costs compliant with regulations, delivering real value to businesses

ISSQ Institute is always ready to accompany enterprises in integration and sustainable development.

• Hotline: (+84) 981851111
• Email: vienchatluong@issq.org.vn | tcvn@issq.org.vn

Published date: October 14, 2022