Chemical compliance… what’s happening?

What’s happening with regard to chemical regulations internationally? Here are some updates we’ve prepared for you for August 2020.

EU parliament calls for more action on dangerous chemicals

The European parliament has adopted a new resolution to tackle dangerous chemicals in numerous consumer segments. The parliament has adopted measures to close loopholes in EU chemical legislation, which will in turn enable REACH to function more efficiently. The new resolution also calls on the commission to come up with a new chemicals strategy to improve human health, as well as the environment, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and the elderly.

The new chemicals strategy should fully reflect the precautionary principle, as well as the polluter-pays principle, while adopting a more transparent approval process. The strategy will also prioritize the development of safe alternatives by committing funds to research and development. The new resolution will be presented as input to a new EU chemicals strategy for sustainability this autumn.

Read the European parliament’s adopted resolution on the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability here.

Non-compliant disinfectants on the EU market

COVID-19 has resulted in high demand and supply for disinfectants on the EU market. Disinfectants such as hand sanitiser are regulated under the Biocidal Products Regulation, which outlines obligations not limited to labelling, efficacy and product authorisation.

As many new companies are placing biocides onto the market, many may be unfamiliar with the rules that are in place and this is reflected in the reported increase in non-compliant products across EU Member States. Competent Authorities are taking a pragmatic approach by engaging with companies, but the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has noted that some companies appear to be taking advantage of the difficult situation. Companies are at risk of enforcement actions including fines and withdrawal of products for non-compliance.

Once companies have confirmed the status of their active substances, and confirmed whether their active substance supplier is listed on Article 95, derogations may be available to enable them to place their products on the market quickly and compliantly. ECHA has a dedicated page for COVID-19 updates here.

Landbell Group company H2 Compliance can support you with ensuring your products are compliant for the market. Please contact us for more information.