Health and Safety information for Retailers

Nickel is now the most frequent cause of contact allergy in Europe. Skin absorption of nickel ions, released from materials containing nickel can lead to sensitivity and subsequent sensitisation. The degree of sensitivity to nickel varies between individuals. This widespread health problem has forced the introduction of new measures to reduce development of allergic contact dermatitis to nickel.

This information has been provided by Sheffield assay Office.

Articles in Contact with Piercings

EC Nickel Directive 2004 / 96 / EC3; SI 2005 no 2001

Under the EC Nickel Directive 2004 / 96 / EC3; SI 2005 no 2001 any post assembly that comes into contact with body piercings shall not emit nickel at a rate greater than 0.2microgrammes/cm2/per week. This directive replaces the requirement of a nickel content test, as it is the nickel release that is the key issue in sensitisation.

Articles not in Contact with Piercings

The directive requires that any component in direct and prolonged contact with unbroken skin shall not emit nickel at a greater rate than 0.5micrograms/cm2/week. The test involves different preparations for coated and uncoated articles. The testing methods used are BSEN 1811: 1999 (elution), and BSEN 12472 (wear and corrosion). In this test nickel release is the key issue.

The Description ‘Nickel Free’ in the UK

LACOTS, the British Trading Standards Advisory body, has determined that the description nickel free can only be applied to products containing no more than 0.01% nickel.

All of the items in this catalogue undergo regular testing at Sheffield Analytical Services (a division of Sheffield Assay Office) to ensure that the nickel content is within the limits stated in the EC Nickel Directive. A certificate of conformity is available on request