SCIP database for SVHC declarations – commencing Jan 5

From January 5, 2021, the new SCIP database – the Substances of Concern In articles as such or in complex objects (Products) – will come into force. Established under the Waste Framework Directive (WFD), the database requires companies that supply articles containing substances of very high concern (SVHCs) on the Candidate List in a concentration above 0.1% weight by weight (w/w) in the EU market to submit information on these articles to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

Companies in the household goods and toys segments also need to respond to this new directive when their articles or packaging contain a higher concentration than is allowed. Products at lower risk of such concentration levels will most likely be those made from inorganic materials such as metal or glass. On the other hand, consumer goods made of plastic, rubber, or with high levels of ink, paint or glue have higher chances of being at risk. The spectrum of products that can be affected is broad, ranging from such items as toys or inflatable articles, to luggage, outdoor furniture and other household goods. 

This database collects information about substances of concern, aiming to decrease the generation of waste containing hazardous substances and promote substitution. It will also contribute to a safer circular economy, providing waste operators with more information on the hazardous substances in the waste they process, making sorting waste easier and improving the quality of recycled materials due to greater visibility over chemicals. It will also allow consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions and choose safer products.

What needs to be submitted?

• Information relevant to the identification of the article;
• Name, concentration range, and location of the SVHC; and
• Other information on the safe use of the article, particularly if the above information is not sufficient to ensure the proper management of the article as waste.

Who needs to submit information?

Companies supplying articles containing substances of very high concern (SVHC) on the Candidate List must be present in an article in a concentration above 0.1 % weight by weight, including:

• EU producers and assemblers;
• EU importers; and
• EU distributors of articles and other actors who place articles on the market.

Retailers and other actors supplying articles directly to consumers are not obliged to submit information to ECHA.

Do you have questions about how the new SCIP database requirements may affect your business?