Assessment and Prioritisation of Existing Chemicals on the Australian Inventory of Chemical Substances (AICS) – Stage One

The National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) is implementing a new framework for the assessment and prioritisation of previously unassessed chemicals that are listed on the Australian Inventory of Chemical Substances (AICS). The Inventory Multi-tiered Assessment and Prioritisation (IMAP) Framework is being implemented in a staged manner, with a focus on a subset of chemicals on the AICS meeting characteristics confirmed through stakeholder consultation. This new framework is producing information about the hazards and risks associated with the use of industrial chemicals and identify chemicals which may require risk mitigation to ensure safe use. In July 2012, NICNAS commenced assessing around 3,000 existing chemicals (Stage One chemicals) using the IMAP Framework, and published the first tranche of assessment reports for public comment in December 2012. The second tranche of assessment reports, including both human health and environmental assessments for more of the Stage One chemicals, will be available on the NICNAS website during the week beginning 18 March 2013. Interested parties have an opportunity to comment on the draft IMAP assessment reports within six weeks of their initial publication. Comments should be provided using the IMAP public comment form which provides guidance regarding submissions. For further information on the IMAP Framework, please visit the NICNAS website.