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EU Chemicals & REACH
Steptoe & Johnson LLP has a long history of servicing and advising the chemicals industry in Europe, with particular focus on pesticides, biocides (antimicrobials), hazardous substances regulations and the new REACH regime.
Chemicals & REACH
Our Brussels office has provided strategic analysis and representation for clients on REACH since its first legislative conception. Since its adoption at the end of 2006, we have been advising on the legal, regulatory and technical compliance obligations that it imposes. Our current activities are focused on helping clients:
- build internal compliance structures and assess need for 3rd party involvement (‘only representative’ of non-EU manufacturer; ‘third party representative’ for pre- and SIEF activities);
- manage their supply chain relationships (producers, importers, downstream and end users);
- develop strategy to mimimize compliance obligations while protecting sensitive data;
- distinguish between "preparations" and "articles";
- understand the scope of available exemptions;
- evaluate likely consortia memberships; and
- ensure on-going compliance with competition (antitrust) law issues.
The sectors we represent include cosmetics, metals, plastics, textiles, biocides and pesticides. Our REACH integrated team, comprised of both lawyers and technicians, enables us to provide our clients with a comprehensive approach to complying with REACH.
Biocides & Pesticides
Our Brussels office has focused on the regulation of pesticides and biocides since the directives governing each area were issued. With respect to biocides, our firm has represented clients in different sectors of the biocidal products industry, on issues including:
- negotiation of consortia agreements;
- representation of clients on/in consortium meetings;
- data protection and compensation; and
- negotiations with the Commission and Member States’ competent authorities.
Steptoe also has a substantial practice representing plant protection product registrants. We support registrants before the Commission and Member States. Our lawyers also have defended registrations before the Court of Justice.
Our relationships with Commission and Member State officials help us in obtaining prompt and accurate feedback on even the most difficult issues. In addition, our close working relationship with technical consultants enables us to cooperatively ensure the effective and efficient preparation of dossiers. Our integrated technical capability results in greater over-all efficiency and lower cost for clients.
News, Seminars & Events
- Darren Abrahams, Craig Simpson Speaking at EU Chemicals Regulation Conference
- Steptoe Names Nancy Russotto European Affairs Advisor
- Steptoe REACH Team Recommended Again
- Craig Simpson speaks at American College of Toxicology Annual Meeting
- REACH in Practice: Lessons Learned
- How to Get the Most Out of REACH Pre-registration
- REACH Pre-registration: Preparation & Execution Webcast
- REACH in Practice
Publications & Speaking Engagements
- June 17, 2008
- May 15, 2008
- May 8, 2008
- 2007
- Darren Abrahams Speaks on "The Environmental Liability Directive" at Conference on Registration of Agrochemicals in Europe
- Craig Simpson Presents on REACH Updates at CSPA Conference in Chicago
- REACH: Current Issues for US Industry
- SIEFs and Consortia: Cooperation under REACH
