On 7 October 2015, ECHA registered the intention of the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) to propose a risk-based measure under the REACH regulation for the industrial and professional use of diisocyanates. This is reported on the website of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
The intention will focus on integrating a training and certification scheme defining conditions for the safe handling of the substances. The training programs will be based on the existing regulations as well as the longstanding voluntary initiatives of the industry.
ISOPA, ALIPA and trade associations representing the industrial and professional downstream users of diisocyanates at European and national level are strongly committed to the safe use of diisocyanates and safety at the workplace. The industry has successfully established a number of product stewardship initiatives for many years, educating on safe use of diisocyanates.
The industry is actively participating in the upcoming process with BAuA and with all other REACH competent authorities in Europe. The subsequent legislative process on EU level will typically last 2-3 years until regulation comes into force.
More information is available in the cross-sector statement available for download.