ECHA Strengthens Chemical Safety with "One Substance, One Assessment" (OSOA) Model

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced that it has taken on new and strategic responsibilities under the European Union's "One Substance, One Assessment" (OSOA) package. According to the announcement made from Helsinki on January 5, 2026, ECHA will play a central role in increasing efficiency, strengthening scientific cooperation, and more effectively protecting human health and the environment.

Common Data Platform for Chemicals Being Established

In the new period, ECHA will manage a comprehensive data platform in coordination with critical EU institutions such as EEA, EFSA, EMA, and EU-OSHA. The services this platform will provide include:

- Chemical Monitoring Information Platform and Reference Values Repository.

- Study Notifications Database and standard control terminologies.

- Sustainability Data: Transparent information flow on substance substitutes and environmental impacts.

ECHA's Expanding Authority and New Responsibilities

ECHA will not only be limited to data management but will also carry out the following technical processes it has taken over from other authorities:

- RoHS Directive: Restriction processes for hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.

- POPs Regulation: Determination of limit values for persistent organic pollutants in waste.

- Medical Devices: Updating guides for benefit-risk analyses of hazardous substances in devices.

ECHA Executive Director Dr. Sharon McGuinness stated in her announcement: "Our goal is to create a safer, more sustainable Europe through cooperation and science-based actions," emphasizing that the new period will be focused on transparency and innovation.

Pier Compliance Note: This new structure means a more predictable regulatory process and centralized data access for companies in the EU market.

Source: https://echa.europa.eu/-/echa-takes-on-additional-tasks-to-strengthen-chemical-safety-in-europe