Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
THE Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has urged players in the paint and coatings industry to reformulate their products and phase out lead-based materials ahead of the full enforcement of Statutory Instrument 82 of 2026 in May next year.
EMA education and publicity manager Mrs Amkela Sidange said the stakeholder awareness workshop being held at a Bulawayo hotel aimed at preparing the entire paint and coatings value chain in the Southern Region to comply with the Prohibition of Lead in Paint and Coating Materials Regulations before enforcement begins in 2027.
The regulations seek to eliminate lead in paint and coating materials, reducing the risk of exposure to the toxic substance, particularly among children and workers in industries that manufacture, handle or apply paint.
Mrs Sidange said the workshop was expected to encourage industry-wide reformulation and batch testing of products ahead of the May 2027 enforcement deadline.
The initiative also seeks to promote the substitution of leaded raw materials and the removal of non-compliant finished paint products from distribution channels.
Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure, while workers involved in paint production and application also face occupational risks.
The transition is therefore expected to contribute to the long-term reduction of lead exposure and improve public health and environmental protection in Zimbabwe.
EMA is engaging stakeholders across the paint and coatings value chain to ensure they understand the requirements of the regulations and take the necessary steps to achieve compliance before enforcement begins.
