Industry News | The Wercs

Of the 42 percent of respondents who rated sustainability as highly important, 87 percent named optimizing their carbon footprint as their top priority for green adherence in their supply chain, according to the PwC‘s 2013 global supply chain survey, Next-generation supply chains: Efficient, fast and tailored. An equal percentage said that it’s best to reach an agreement with their suppliers on adhering to the highest ethical standards.

Have questions on ECHA Guidelines? Find guidance on GHS, REACH and CLP requirements here, including practical information and best practices.

To better protect workers from hazardous chemicals, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) revised its Hazard Communication Standard, aligning it with the United Nations' global chemical labeling system. The new standard, once implemented, will prevent an estimated 585 injuries and illnesses, avert an estimated 43 deaths, and result in an estimated $475.2 million in enhanced productivity for U.S. businesses each year.

Despite a mixed first quarter, most European chemical firms say that they are optimistic about their prospects for the full year and that they are on track for 2013 to be better financially than 2012.

Authorisation applications can be submitted to ECHA right up to the latest application date listed in Annex XIV in order to be considered “received”, according to clarification provided by the European Commission. Uses covered by such applications can continue until the Commission reaches a decision on the authorisation – even if this is after the “sunset date”, according to Article 56(1)(d) of REACH.

An example of the read-across methodology, using a hypothetical substance, has been published by ECHA. The example gives an outline of the level of information expected to be provided, and includes comments and reasoning on the approach taken.

ECHA has sent a draft revised guidance on the compilation of safety data sheets to the Partner Expert Group (PEG) for comment. The updated guidance provides detailed information on how to integrate or attach an exposure scenario with a safety data sheet.