Two-thirds of REACH registrations need updates
A recent industry review of REACH registrations has revealed significant data gaps, with two-thirds of checked dossiers requiring updates.
Industry initiative highlights need for data improvement. This finding comes from a voluntary action plan launched by Cefic, a European chemical industry association, in 2019 to enhance the quality of REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) dossiers. The plan involves companies reevaluating their existing REACH registrations.
Cefic’s latest progress report, published in May 2024, analyzed 974 dossiers reassessed in 2023. It found that a substantial portion, roughly two-thirds, contained missing data or required information updates. This aligns with previous years’ results, underscoring a persistent issue with incomplete REACH dossiers.
Progress made despite challenges
Since the program’s inception, companies have reviewed nearly 4,000 dossiers, exceeding two-thirds of the initial target (5,200 by 2026). This represents a significant step towards the overall goal, encompassing roughly 40% of all substances with full registrations in the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) database.
However, the initial target for dossier reviews by 2026 has been revised downward. Cefic attributes this change to new REACH information requirements implemented in 2022. Resources originally intended for planned reevaluations were redirected to update previously assessed dossiers to comply with these new regulations. Additionally, some companies prioritized mandatory compliance checks in 2023, leading to a decrease in voluntary reassessments.
Industry efforts complement ECHA’s activities
This industry effort complements ECHA’s own evaluation activities. In February 2024, ECHA reported that 83% of REACH dossiers reviewed in 2023 required further information. This highlights a broader concern regarding data quality within REACH registrations. This means that REACH registrations need updates urgently.
ECHA has significantly increased its legal target for dossier evaluation, from 5% to 20% since 2019. Cefic’s action plan, involving around 200 participating companies, works alongside ECHA’s efforts. Companies reassess their dossiers and, if necessary, resubmit them to ECHA with updated information. This collaboration aims to ensure the completeness and accuracy of REACH registrations, ultimately enhancing chemical safety in the European Union.
Need help updating your REACH registration dossiers? Nordiik can assist you with the process. Contact us today!
Source: Enhesa
Download here the 5th Progress Report of CEFIC: 5th-Annual-Report-Cefic-2024-Progress-Report-on-REACH-Dossier-Improvement-Action-Plan
