Switzerland has announced a revised version of the “Ordinance on the Protection against Dangerous Substances and Preparations” (ChemO).
ChemO is the overarching chemical legislation in Switzerland. It safeguards human health and the environment by overseeing chemical usage and distribution. Although Switzerland is not an EU member, it aligns with essential elements of EU REACH and CLP regulations. It covers classification, labelling, packaging, exposure scenarios, safety data sheets, and notification of new substances. Notably, all substances which are not registered under EU REACH must be notified before entering the Swiss market
The World Trade Organization recently announced several amendments to ChemO, specifically affecting Annexes 2 and 3. These changes aim to align Switzerland’s chemical regulations with the latest EU and UN standards in environmental and chemical management, with the goal of reducing trade barriers and enhancing trade flow. The amendments are scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2024.
Please note that as yet, the full specifics relating to some of the updates to ChemO are yet to be published by the authorities. However, please see the detail relating to the amendments in relation to Annex 2 which are known so far:
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New Substance Inclusion:
- The EU CLP Regulation’s 21st Technical Progress Adaptation introduces 28 substances for harmonized classification and labeling.
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Existing Entries Update:
- Twenty-four existing entries have been updated to align with contemporary safety standards.
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New Hazard Categories:
- Under EU 2023/707, hazard categories for endocrine disruptors, persistent chemicals, and substances threatening water bodies will be phased in. This process begins with individual substances.
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Testing Standards Refresh:
- Swiss legislation now incorporates the latest OECD and UN testing protocols.
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Alignment with EU CLP:
- Annexes I to VII of EU CLP will now apply in Switzerland. This harmonization ensures that the handling of substances and preparations aligns with international guidelines.
Please see the specific amendments in relation to Annex 3 are shown below:
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New Additions:
- Seven new substances have been included in the ChemO Annex 3 List of Candidate Substances. This list identifies chemicals that may pose significant health or environmental risks.
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Revisions:
- Several existing entries on the list have been updated.
Following the announcement, we encourage companies to ensure that they have assessed their obligations to ensure they are in compliance with the Swiss ChemO regulations. For further guidance on navigating ChemO, please contact info@h2compliance.com.
Published August 30, 2024
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