REACH

REACH has been implemented in June 2007 and will replace the current Risk assessment system as of June 2008. i2a is preparing for REACH and has therefore expanded the antimony trioxide association to an antimony compounds association in general. Bylaws and an internal agreement have been defined.

Our experience with ATO and the existing vertical consortium (ATOS) means that i2a is well placed to set up a consortium on other antimony compounds based on this successful model.

The European Commission has set a deadline of May 31st 2008 for the completion of all EU Risk Assessments. The current ATO Risk Assessment will be concluded at that time as well. All the scientific data gathered under the Risk Assessment will be transferred to a REACH dossier and will enable industry partners to (pre-) register ATO at the appropriate time.

Producers, importers and users of antimony compounds that intend to register an antimony compound under REACH are encouraged to contact the Secretary-General of i2a, Karine Van de Velde (see “contacts”) with a view to coordinating future registration requirements. Joining i2a before April 30 means you don’t pay an additional entrance fee. Next i2a General Assembly meeting is scheduled for June 20 in Brussels.(members only)