SUBSTANCE RESTRICTIONS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD
Legal provisions governing combinations of materials in products are just as relevant for companies as other product safety provisions. Meeting material compliance requirements is of great importance, not only in the European Union, but also globally. There are hundreds of sets of rules worldwide that restrict or prohibit the use of certain substances in products.
In the US states alone, for instance, there are about 377 sets of material compliance rules. As well as federal laws (e.g. the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in the USA), there can also be sub-federal provisions in individual states (e.g. USA), provinces, and territories (e.g. Canada). So researching requirements can be very challenging.
Adhering to material provisions is not only difficult due to international supply chains, different approaches, and different limits in substance lists, but also because of the many exemptions and, in some cases, wildly differing interpretations.
The prerequisite for product manufacturers is to inform themselves about the requirements that apply in their target markets and ensure that the goods they produce adhere to the corresponding provisions. They must monitor international legislation carefully, cooperate with suppliers, and then implement effective material compliance systems throughout the supply chain.
By adhering to internationally applicable material compliance provisions, companies can fulfill their customers’ requirements, avoid legal consequences, build a positive image, and at the same time make a positive contribution to human health and environmental protection. Companies that ensure today that their products do not contain any prohibited substances will be twice as competitive tomorrow, while securing a considerable head start over their international competitors.
