2019-2023 IRS Assessment: ECHA's Achievements in Managing the Hazards of Chemicals and 2024-2028 Strategy 04/11/2024

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has taken significant steps to manage chemical hazards in the European Union (EU) market through its Integrated Regulation Strategy (IRS) set for the period 2019-2023. The information gathered and the successes achieved during this process enable a proactive approach to risk management of chemical groups, while a coherent and comprehensive roadmap is being presented in line with the new strategy set for the period 2024-2028.

2019-2023 IRS Period: Detection of Chemical Hazards and Risk Management

Thanks to the work carried out by the IRS during the 2019-2023 period, valuable data was obtained regarding the identification and management of the hazards of chemicals in the EU market. In this process, ECHA adopted a transparent approach by informing stakeholders about developments through annual IRS reports and mapping tools.

Achievements and Findings of the IRS

Thanks to the IRS, approximately 6,000 chemical substances have been screened, and it has been determined that 30% of these require regulatory risk management. However, more data is needed to verify management measures for most substances. Additionally, certain chemical groups such as bisphenols, ortho-phthalates, and flame retardants have been included in the "Roadmap for Restrictions" in light of their potential hazards. In this regard, additional efforts are being made to clarify classification and labeling requirements for many substances.

2024-2028 ECHA Strategy: Goals and Priorities

The aim of the newly defined ECHA strategy for the 2024-2028 period is to strengthen its position as a reliable authority in chemical management. Key components of the strategy include maintaining an updated chemical database, prioritizing regulatory activities, and enhancing collaboration by working in alignment with EU member states.

Challenges and Needs Facing the IRS in the Upcoming Period

According to assessments conducted by ECHA, the IRS faces certain challenges such as data deficiencies and limited resources. The need for more data, particularly to determine the most appropriate tools for chemical risk management, necessitates the activation of data collection and assessment processes. Furthermore, creating synergies and enhancing collaboration as part of new tasks is also among the priorities.

Chemical Safety Priorities for ECHA in the Upcoming Period

ECHA’s 2019-2023 IRS assessment has provided significant knowledge in the management of chemical hazards and enabled a proactive risk management approach. With the new 2024-2028 strategy, ECHA aims to conduct its activities regarding the safety of chemicals in the EU market in a more transparent and effective manner.