On February 27, 2012, ECHA released its assessment report on REACH registrations submitted in 2011. The report indicated that nearly three-quarters of the REACH registration documents assessed were non-compliant or unqualified. ECHA stated that most documents required review because the overall compliance rate was not high, and that over 70% of substance identification was incomplete; only a small number of documents did not require further review. In addition to substance identification, ECHA pointed out that the evidence provided in risk assessments and chemical safety reports was also insufficient.
In 2011, ECHA completed compliance checks on 146 registration files, of which 134 required further information, indicating that there was still much room for improvement in the quality of the information submitted by registrants. ECHA advised that "those who plan to complete registration in 2013 should definitely read this report, and those who have already completed registration should take the necessary actions."
The report lists common missing records and offers relevant recommendations:
Ø Substance Identification: Registrants are required to clearly define substances. The composition and identification information in the registration materials must be supported by appropriate substance analysis. Unclear substance identification information may affect the accuracy of hazard information and lead to incorrect information regarding the safe use of the substance.
Ø Test recommendations and hazard assessments: Information based on research findings on the substance must be based on standard testing methods and the results must be verifiable. Relevant scientific evidence must be included in the registration file.
Ø Chemical Safety Report (CSR): If a CSR lacks information on hazards, uses, and potential exposures, risks cannot be properly identified, leading to inappropriate risk management measures and significantly undermining the original intent of REACH for the safe use of chemicals. Therefore, manufacturers are required to revise and update their CSRs and ensure that information on the safe use of substances is appropriately communicated to consumers.
The report also provides recommendations to registrants regarding special testing, testing materials for specific substances, substance identification, and reproductive toxicity testing. It also offers information on chemical safety assessments, hazard assessments, PBT assessments, exposure extent and assessment, risk characteristics, classification, and labeling.
Download the 2011 REACH assessment report:http://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/17221/evaluation_report_en.pdf
Download the 2011 REACH assessment report summary document:http://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/17221/evaluation_report_summary_en.pdf
Sources: ECHA (2012-02-27) (Compiled by PIDC)
