RIVM investigates validity of REACH data in Dutch policy framework

REACH is the European policy framework for the risk management of dangerous chemicals. Producers and importers provide risk limits below which the use of a chemical is assumed to be safe. The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) investigated the validity of REACH data in the Dutch policy framework on priority chemicals. The research was based on a sample of more than 200 chemicals. For a large number of chemicals the REACH dossiers were found not to contain risk limits. If risk limits were available, then industry relies on other figures than authorities. In most cases industry applies less stringent limits, sometimes with a substantial difference (factor of 100 or more). In those cases industry claims safe use of chemicals on values that deviate from the standards currently used by authorities to safeguard man and environment. Therefore carefulness is needed when transferring REACH risk limits to other frameworks, like the policy on priority chemicals in the Netherlands. For, amongst others, local permit authorities it is important to realise that such differences and gaps may occur and that they should be further examined. RIVM gives a number of recommendations how stakeholders should handle REACH data in those cases for a better protection of man and environment. RIVM will prepare further guidance for this purpose (News Item RIVM, 6 May 1013).