The National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER) in South Korea recently issued Announcement No. 56 of 2024, under the Act on Registration and Evaluation, etc. of Chemical Substances. This new regulation, titled Regulations on the Preparation and Provision of Hazard Information for Chemical Substances, mandates that all enterprises submit detailed supply chain information along with risk and hazard data for chemicals under the K-REACH framework.
It aims to ensure that when chemical information is provided, the related hazard information is compiled in accordance with regulations, thereby enhancing the transparency and safety of chemical management.
Information Required from Enterprises
- Purpose differentiation: Clearly distinguish between industrial/professional and consumer uses of chemical substances, and describe the specific uses of the substance within the supply chain.
- Working condition description: For industrial or professional uses, detailed descriptions of workers' usage time, exposure frequency, and other relevant working conditions are required.
- Hazard management measures: Describe measures aimed at avoiding or reducing direct or indirect exposure of the environment and humans to chemical substances, including hazard management for waste disposal.
- Estimated exposure levels: Describe the estimated exposure levels under optimal working conditions, assuming that working conditions and hazard management measures are properly implemented.
According to these new regulations, the Ministry of Environment will review the rationality of these provisions every three years starting from January 1, 2025, and take necessary improvement measures. These measures are intended to further strengthen South Korea's regulations on chemical safety management, protecting public health and environmental safety.
This announcement has recently come into effect, marking a significant step forward in South Korea's chemical management regulations.
