In a press release published on April 26, 2018, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) informed that on the same day the EU Member States (MS) representatives on the REACH Committee have “voted to amend REACH Annexes to explicitly address nanoforms of substances.” The draft amendments to REACH Annexes introducing nano-specific definitions and requirements were proposed by the European Commission (EC) in October 2017 (FPF reported).
The new requirements will address several knowledge gaps, including which REACH-registered substances are marketed as nanoforms and in which quantities, as well as their “basic characteristics,” uses, rules for handling them safely, potential risks to health and the environment, and “how these risks are controlled.” The amendments are now “subject to a three-month scrutiny by the Parliament and Council before being adopted by the Commission.”
Meanwhile, ECHA will “assess the need to update existing, or issue new guidance to support registrants in complying with the new requirements.”
Read more
ECHA (April 26, 2018). “ECHA welcomes improved clarity on nanomaterials in the EU – Member States vote to amend REACH Annexes.”
Nanotechnology Industries Association (April 26, 2018). “REACH Annexes adopted to require specific information on nanomaterials.”
Andrew Turley (April 26, 2018). “EU states agree nanomaterial changes to REACH Annexes.” Chemical Watch
Cefic (April 26, 2018). “Clarity on safe use of nanomaterials progress for chemical industry and environment.”
Clelia Oziel (May 9, 2018). “REACH nano changes get industry nod, but concerns linger.” Chemical Watch
