Chemicals in products
Chemicals can carry out important functions in a wide range of products and goods, but they can also pose a direct health risk on the user. Increased knowledge about chemicals is the first step for good opportunities to choose not to include, or to select less, dangerous substances.
The fact that products contain chemicals with different hazard levels has been noted more and more during recent years. The main problem in relation to chemicals in products is the diffuse spread of the substances that occur when chemicals are released from the product during manufacture, use, waste management and any recycling. In order for all goods to be handled safely during use and recycling it is important to obtain better information on the chemical content.
The company has the main role
The new legislation in the EU, e.g. REACH, gives companies much better conditions for reducing chemical risks to health and the environment. All companies are affected by REACH. Contrary to previous requirements, REACH also places requirements on manufacturers or importers of goods. Also completely new, is that some chemicals will require a permit in order to be used. Increased knowledge would allow you better opportunities to choose less dangerous substances when you choose chemical products. Swerea IVF offers courses in REACH legislation with practical focus on goods. You can also order our report "REACH for goods handlers and chemical users".
Large waste flows
Electronic waste constitutes one of the biggest waste flows of end-of-life goods. Many of the substances that are now being phased out via the Stockholm convention are chemicals that are found, for example, in electronics, clothes and furniture.
Swerea IVF monitors and follows the development through the Swedish Chemicals Agency and membership in Plast & Kemiföretagen (Swedish Plastics and Chemical companies association). Membership in "The chemical group at Swerea IVF" which is aimed towards textile and/or electronics companies, offers access to chemical databases, valuable meetings with industry colleagues as well as support and help in managing legislation within the area
The chemical group at Swerea IVF offers courses in REACH legislation with practical focus on goods.
Please contact Stefan Posner if you want to know more about The chemical group at Swerea IVF.
Further information