Highlights from December Member State Committee meeting

Purpose

ECHA’s Member State Committee (MSC) convened on December 16, 2024, to discuss various matters related to chemical substances. The primary objective was to identify Octamethyltrisiloxane as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC), which will be added to the Candidate List in January 2025. Additionally, the committee agreed on further substances to be included in the Candidate List through written procedure.

Effects on Industry

The identification of Octamethyltrisiloxane as an SVHC and its subsequent addition to the Candidate List is expected to have significant implications for industries utilizing this substance. Companies will need to reassess their use and potential exposure to this chemical, potentially leading to changes in manufacturing processes or the implementation of risk management measures. The inclusion of four additional substances through written procedure may also require companies to reevaluate their supply chains and product formulations.

Relevant Stakeholders

The following stakeholders are directly affected by the decisions made during the MSC meeting:

1. Chemical Manufacturers: Companies that utilize Octamethyltrisiloxane or the other identified substances in their products will need to adapt to the new regulations.
2. Downstream Users: Industries and businesses that rely on these substances for production, such as manufacturers of consumer goods, may also be impacted by the changes.
3. Regulatory Bodies: Government agencies responsible for enforcing chemical regulations at national levels will need to ensure compliance with the EU’s Candidate List.

Next Steps

To comply with the updated Candidate List:

1. Companies: Review and update their use of Octamethyltrisiloxane and other identified substances in their products, processes, or supply chains.
2. Regulators: Ensure that national regulations align with the EU’s Candidate List and enforce compliance accordingly.
3. Supply Chain Partners: Reassess relationships with suppliers who utilize these substances and ensure that any necessary changes are implemented.

Any Other Relevant Information

The MSC also discussed the review of the prioritization approach for substances to be included in the Authorisation List, indicating a potential shift in the EU’s chemical regulation framework. This may lead to further changes in the way companies manage their use of chemicals. Additionally, the committee agreed on one substance evaluation and three compliance check draft decisions through written procedure, highlighting ongoing efforts to ensure the safe handling and disposal of chemical substances within the EU.