New initiative REACHes out to forthcoming legislation

The Chemical Industries Association (CIA) and LGC, Europe's leading independent analytical laboratory, have launched a joint initiative to establish a UK REACH Centre to help prepare the chemical industry for new legislation, likely to come into force in the next 2-3 years.

The new centre will offer a range of services, including advice on the new procedures, consortium facilitation, data management, chemical safety reporting as well as co-ordinating independent verifiers, research and test services. It will also provide direct assistance to supply chain information exchange, building on existing trade association activity; and help in building a more comprehensive knowledge base of chemicals currently marketed in the UK.

The CIA and LGC are engaging in a consultation process in the UK and around the EU to ensure that the REACH Centre meets the needs of a wide range of users and that it develops in a way that is compatible with regulatory requirements and with other industry initiatives, which may develop elsewhere in the EU.

CIA Director General Judith Hackitt said: 'REACH is the single most important regulatory issue facing chemical supply and user industries today. The CIA and LGC are seeking a unique alliance with their industry partners, trade associations and government stakeholders to establish a support mechanism that could improve the UK's competitive standing.'

'Together, LGC and the CIA are establishing an independent support mechanism for the chemical sector in preparation for REACH,' added Dr John Marriott, LGC's Government Chemist. 'The UK REACH Centre will offer a range of chemical management support for health, safety, and environmental compliance establishing a highly credible network of technical, business, and legal specialists to advise on different REACH situations.'