Existing Chemicals Review Implementation

Work on the Implementation Strategy for the Existing Chemicals Review progresses, with Jane Bremmer, Pamela Grassick and Liz Hanna representing the CEF on the Implementation Steering Group (ISG). The second meeting of the ISG was held on 19 March 2008 to further develop its work plan, which is structured in streams to align with the recommendations arising from the Existing Chemicals Review.

Technical Working Parties (TWPs) reporting to the ISG will lead the work in specific areas. TWP membership comprises relevant technical experts and government, industry and community representatives. CEF members can participate in these groups. Alternatively the CEF can nominate other expert candidates to represent community interests. New assessment products and prioritisation and screening criteria will be the main focus of the Stream 2 Working Party. The TWP for Stream 3 will consider surveillance, monitoring and post market reporting.

Stream 1 is to focus on exploring ways to improve communication and information coming to NICNAS from key stakeholders, including community members. The streams are explained on pages 4-6 of the Implementation Strategy.

Regulatory Reform of Disinfectants

NICNAS staff held four public meetings in early April, two each in Sydney and Melbourne. While CEF members sought a wider consultation process, the decision to hold meetings in our two largest cities only was based on the view that the regulated industry is concentrated there.

The last Bulletin reported that a consultant had been appointed to review the current Australian and overseas regulatory practices for disinfectants with a view to recommending an alternative, best practice regulatory framework for disinfectants in Australia. The aim is to reduce complexity of the system, and improve its function.

The review document "A new regulatory framework for disinfectants" was made available for public comment. The CEF believes this information must be broadly accessible, and therefore must be presented in an easy-to-read format. 

Click for NICNAS information on disinfectants.

Professor Ben Selinger

The last bulletin advised of a vacancy on the CEF created by the resignation of Professor Chris Winder. The CEF warmly welcomed his most able replacement, Professor Ben Selinger. Nominated by CHOICE to represent the interests of public health, Ben, a chemist, brings a strong background in chemical standards, consumer advocacy and science communication in print and radio.  He was on the original National Occupational Health and Safety Commission (1984) (representing the ACT).

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STOP PRESS: Unfortunately Professor Selinger is unable to continue as CEF member representing public health, and NICNAS is now seeking a replacement. We thank him for his efforts.  

Nanotechnology Advisory Group (NAG)

Three representatives each from NICNAS, CEF and IGCC (Industry) and two experts in toxicology and nanoscience attended the first NAG meeting on March 17.  NAG terms of reference are to consider the implications of the potential impact of nanomaterials (on public health, workers and the environment) and the implications for the regulation of industrial chemicals in Australia; and to advise the Director on measures that NICNAS can take to address these implications.

Current chemical regulation was not designed to take account of nanomaterials, and NAG members were concerned that with multiple government agencies involved, outcomes could be fragmented. NAG discussed the proposed work-plan, recommending that NICNAS proceed with a voluntary program to collect up to date data on the current use of manufactured nanoparticles in Australia; potential exposure of workers, the public and the environment; and controls. Given the rapid developments in nanotechnology, NAG members agreed that three months, with a follow up period of a further three months, was an appropriate timeframe.

The community representatives on this project are Bro Sheffield-Brotherton, Renata Musolino and Chris Winder.  Please contact the CEF if you have any issues you would like considered.

Click for NICNAS information on Nanotechnology.

Productivity Commission on Chemicals and Plastics Regulation

The Productivity Commission released its Draft Report on Chemicals and Plastics Regulation for public comment by April 30. The review investigates the current system of regulation of chemicals in Australia, makes recommendations for reform and aims to ease regulatory burden on industry.

The CEF submission agreed that the complexity of the current regulatory structure for chemicals and plastics creates difficulties for industry, regulatory authorities and also the community. However, our main concern regards risks to workers, community members, and the environment arising from the review process. The CEF wants the review take the opportunity to decrease the risks associated with the processes of manufacturing, importing, utilisation and ultimate disposal of chemicals.

Interested parties were able to submit comments on the draft report.