ECHA’s Enforcement Forum agreed that the next EU-wide enforcement project will address the safety of workers. A new pilot project will control export of hazardous substances from the European Union.
As part of the next EU-level enforcement project (REF-15), inspectors will check safe use information in safety data sheets and that risk management measures recommended in them are implemented in the workplace. The project will include checking that companies with an authorisation to use a substance of very high concern apply the required conditions. Controls will also cover the use of certain restricted hazardous substances for which special conditions apply for use in the workplace (e.g. diisocyanates, NMP, DMF).
This project will improve the safety of workers and strengthen enforcement by enhancing collaboration between enforcement authorities responsible for REACH and those responsible for occupational safety and health legislation. Inspections will take place in 2027 and the report is planned for 2028.
The Forum agreed to run a pilot project to control the requirements of the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) Regulation. This includes checking that banned chemicals are not exported, verifying that exports of hazardous chemicals are notified according to the rules, and accompanied by appropriate information. Inspectors will also check that exports have received a consent from third parties, when required by the Regulation. Inspections are planned for 2026 and the report will be published in 2027.
The Forum and its biocides subgroup (BPRS) gave steer to their ongoing projects and exchanged experiences from national enforcement campaigns. The Forum covered, for example, control of online sales of chemicals and checks of restrictions on hazardous substances, such as diisocyanates, phthalates in consumer products or substances used in tattoo inks. The Forum also agreed to further expand its work on analytical methods used for enforcement of restrictions. The BPRS discussed national campaigns focused on use of pest control products and disinfectants for veterinary use.
The Forum and its biocides subgroup met on 9-13 June 2025. The next meetings will take place in November 2025.
Background
The Enforcement Forum, including its biocides subgroup (BPRS), is a network of enforcement authorities from the EU and EEA. They are responsible for coordinating the enforcement of the REACH, CLP, PIC, Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) and the Biocidal Products regulations with the aim of protecting our health and the environment. The Forum’s work on harmonisation of enforcement ensures a level playing field for companies across the EU market and improves the competitiveness of compliant companies.