Dutch government restricts steel slag use over health risks

The government has decided to restrict the use of steel slag for a year, allowing it in only exceptional circumstances, caretaker State Secretary Thierry Aartsen (Environment, VVD) wrote in a letter to parliament. This byproduct from the steel industry has been used for a variety of applications, such as roads and playgrounds, but there are now concerns about health risks.

The pause button applies to large-scale use and use in locations where direct contact with steel slag is possible. “During this pause, we can conduct thorough research into the risks and possible alternative uses,” Aartsen wrote.

The State Secretary is intervening after the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT), and the Court of Audit all urged for action in critical reports.

The Ministry regularly hears that people who have been near steel slag have experienced skin or respiratory irritation. Aartsen’s predecessor, Chris Jansen (PVV), previously advised not to use steel slag where children play. There have been reports of children experiencing nosebleeds.

Steel slag may still be used in large bodies of water, such as lakes. Aartsen’s research revealed no major concern for human and environmental health here. It also remains permitted to use the byproduct in concrete blocks, concrete, asphalt, and, under certain conditions, as a binding agent. However, a permit will be required for these applications.