Checking and implementing the exposure scenario
REACH knowledge base – Checking and implementing the exposure scenario
1. Checking the description of use
If the description of use differs greatly from what the downstream users wish to use the substance for, they have to contact the supplier in order to clarify the situation.
2. Checking the method of use
If the substance or mixture results in increased exposure regarding the intended use, the downstream user may not be in compliance with the exposure scenario and should therefore contact the supplier.
3. Checking the risk management measures
These recommendations should be compared with the measures we are taking to protect workers, consumers and the environment. It is necessary to determine whether these measures are the same or more effective than those proposed in the exposure scenario. The supplier should be informed if we consider their proposed risk management measures inadequate.
The differences between the conditions of use in practice and the ones described in the exposure scenario not always mean that the use is not covered by the exposure scenario. If the operating conditions are the same as described in the exposure scenario or are similar to those in the exposure scenario and the given quantitative values are within the specified limits, the exposure scenario applies to them.
Tasks to do, when the used substance has been registered, but its exposure scenario does not contain our particular use
- Describe our use to the supplier, with the aim to obtain an exposure scenario that contains our use as well.
- Change the conditions of use to meet the conditions of the suppliers exposure scenario.
- Look for a supplier whose exposure scenario contains the intended use.
- Make our own chemical safety report
- Substitute the substance with another one or change the technology
- Suspend the activity
Substances or mixtures incorporated into articles
The chemical safety report of the registrant must contain all life cycles of the article and, where applicable, also the lifespan of the article, as well as its waste state and the relevant exposure scenario.
As a downstream user, we can only check the steps apply for us and those steps related to the lifecycle of the article that are relevant to us. It is not our task to determine whether the next members of the supply chain meet the requirements.
If necessary, information on safe disposal should also be provided along with the articles.
Documentation
The evaluation of the conditions of use described in the exposure scenario and compliance with them should be documented.
Recommend article(s)