Global Reach

INTRODUCTION

The planned national law of control over chemicals in India is called India REACH, or the Chemical (Management and Safety) Rules. The draft regulations were proposed to supersede two previous rules: the Manufacture, Storage and Import of Hazardous Chemicals (MSIHC) Rules of 1989 and the Chemical Accidents (Emergency Planning, Preparedness and Response) (CAEPPR) Rules of 1996.

These new regulations are issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The purpose of India REACH is to ensure safe handling of chemicals, protecting people and the environment. This law will be implemented soon by the government.

INDIA REACH COMPLIANCE

Once in effect, the regulation will apply to:

• Indian manufacturers
• Indian importers
• Authorized representatives of foreign manufacturers

International companies can comply with India REACH through an authorized representative in India, who will handle registration, documentation, and communication with authorities.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS

A. Notification and Annual Reporting

• Existing or new substances (including hazardous ones) used above one tonne per year must be reported.
• A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and other details must be submitted.
• Upon approval, a notification number and certificate are issued.
• Companies must file an annual update within 60 days of each year.

B. Registration

Around 750 priority chemicals listed in Schedule II must be registered if used above one tonne per year. The list will increase over time.

• Registration requires a technical dossier and chemical safety report.
• Testing must be done in NABL or GLP-approved labs.
• Joint registration is possible when multiple companies use the same substance.
• Upon approval, a certificate and registration number are issued.

C. Priority Substances

Priority substances are classified as hazardous based on CMR, PBT, or vPvB criteria. Companies handling these must:

• Perform a chemical safety assessment
• Submit exposure and safety reports based on quantity used

IMPORT CONTROL

• Importers of priority/hazardous substances must notify authorities at least 15 days prior to arrival.
• Details such as port of entry, transport mode, product name, and safety records must be submitted.
• Imports can be suspended if they pose risks to health or the environment.

LABELING AND PACKAGING

• Labels must be in English and Hindi and comply with GHS Version 8.
• Packaging must meet metal safety standards.

SAFETY DATA SHEET (SDS)

• Manufacturers and importers must maintain and submit updated SDS for all listed substances.
• Articles containing more than 1% of a listed substance also require an SDS.

EVALUATION AND RESTRICTION

• Registered substances will be evaluated for potential risks.
• Highly hazardous substances may be restricted or banned.
• Companies can apply for temporary authorization to use restricted substances.

D. HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

These regulations define safety requirements for the manufacturing, handling, and import of hazardous chemicals. They also specify accident prevention and emergency response guidelines.

Shipment of Hazardous Chemicals

• Vehicles transporting hazardous chemicals must be labeled and tracked.
• Transport must follow the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
• Shipping chemicals to another state requires notifying the local pollution control board.

INDUSTRIAL ACTIVITY NOTIFICATION AND SITE SAFETY REPORT

Industrial premises using chemicals must identify hazards and implement preventive measures. Workers must receive proper training and safety equipment.

Streamlined Site Safety Report

• Required for sites not classified under standard safety categories.
• Must show risk assessment and safety measures.
• Must be submitted within 30 days of starting activity or once rules take effect.
• Authorities must acknowledge within 60 days.

Standard Site Safety Report

• Required for sites handling dangerous chemicals listed in Schedule XI or XII.
• Occupier must submit a notification and site safety document at least 90 days before operations.

Safety Audit Report

• Major accident hazard sites must submit safety audits within 180 days.
• New audits must be performed every two years.

Revision and Update

• Changes impacting previously submitted information must be reported within 30 days.
• A fresh site safety report must be prepared every three years.

On-site Emergency Plan

• Required for sites handling major hazardous chemicals.
• Updates are mandatory whenever operations change.
• Existing sites must submit within 90 days, new sites within 30 days.

Mock Drill Report

• Mock drills must be conducted every 180 days.
• Authorities must be informed within seven days.

Off-site Emergency Plan

Occupiers must provide necessary information for authorities to prepare an off-site emergency plan, including potential accident scenarios and impact estimates.

Notification of Chemical Accidents

• Accidents must be reported within 24 hours.
• A detailed report must be submitted within 72 hours.
• Preventive action reports are required within 180 days.

Information for Individuals Around Chemical Zones

People working or living near chemical sites must be informed about potential risks and safety measures. This information must be provided:

• Before beginning activities
• Within 90 days for existing operations

SUMMARY

These safety regulations aim to improve workplace, community, and environmental safety. More substances will be added to mandatory certification lists over time, showing India's growing focus on chemical safety and quality.

What Presto Laboratories Has to Offer?

Stay updated with the latest regulatory changes in your industry. Presto Laboratories guides companies through India REACH and BIS registration or notification for new and existing chemicals.

The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals has made BIS Certification mandatory for several chemicals. These must meet Indian Standards.

Presto Laboratories supports manufacturers and importers in obtaining BIS Certification as per government rules. Complete your India REACH certification process with Presto Laboratories and ensure your products comply with national safety standards.