Micromega: REACH for nanomaterials - Synthesis of the discussion and results of an NIA Masterclass and Workshop held in London (UK), 9th May 2007

Report of a workshop sponsored by the Nanotechnology Industries Association covering the new European law on chemicals REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals that came into effect on June 1, 2007. The workshop first explored how past discussions around nanomaterials influenced the development of the REACH regulation, and then sought to clarify nanomaterials’ current status within the legislation that was passed by the European Parliament. While the final version of the REACH regulation does not contain specific provisions of nanomaterials, all materials, regardless of size, are subject to the same requirements, especially for pre-registration and registration. The workshop did find that it is possible that nanomaterials may eventually have specific categories and required procedures assigned to them if nanomaterials would be reviewed on a case-by-case basis or if a industry wide practical approach would be proposed and accepted by authorities.