AICIS Opens Consultation On 18 Industrial Chemicals Evaluations

Dr Steven Brennan
Dr Steven Brennan
2 min readAI-drafted, expert reviewed
Australis flag outside building

Key takeaway

What This Development Means

AICIS is seeking public input on 18 draft evaluations of industrial chemicals, which may influence regulatory guidance or inventory listings. This consultation presents manufacturers and value chain stakeholders with an opportunity to assess compliance, mitigate risk, and prepare for regulatory changes. Feedback is due by 29 May 2025.

What is the AICIS chemical evaluation consultation about?

The AICIS consultation reviews 18 industrial chemicals to determine if current safety measures are adequate. It could lead to regulatory updates, affecting how chemicals are introduced or used in manufacturing and downstream sectors.

How can manufacturers respond to the AICIS consultation?

Manufacturers should review the draft evaluations and provide relevant feedback, especially if they import, manufacture, or use the chemicals listed. Comments must be submitted to AICIS by 29 May 2025 to be considered.

Source basis: https://www.industrialchemicals.gov.au/consultations/draft-evaluations-have-your-say-open-comment-until-29-may-2025

The Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS) has launched a public consultation on 18 draft evaluations concerning widely used industrial chemicals. Open until 29 May 2025, the review aims to assess health and environmental risks and could lead to regulatory changes. Businesses involved in importing, manufacturing, or using these chemicals across the value chain should take note and prepare for possible inventory amendments or new guidance measures.

Overview Of Draft Evaluations

The consultation includes substances used across critical manufacturing sectors, such as adhesives and sealants, paints and coatings, cleaning agents, textiles, automotive care, and personal care products. Among the chemicals under review are 1,1'-Biphenyl, 4,4'-diisocyanato-3,3'-dimethyl-, various acrylic acid derivatives, ethoxylated alcohols, and benzophenone.

AICIS is particularly focused on assessing whether current risk management measures are sufficient or if updated regulations are needed. Several entries involve recommendations to the regulatory body regarding safe use practices, especially for worker and environmental protection.‍

Chemicals And Sectoral Impact

Some key substances and their implications include:

  • Ethoxylated alcohols (EVA00168): Common in personal care, cleaning, and industrial applications. AICIS proposes no new regulatory actions but underscores ongoing safe use guidance.
  • 2-Butanone oxime (MEKO)-releasing silanes (EVA00181): Used in adhesives and sealants, this group could see inventory terms revised to enhance public and worker safety.
  • Methanone, diphenyl- (Benzophenone, EVA00184): Present in coatings and personal care, may trigger new recommendations concerning public health.

Of the 18 evaluations, many conclude that no further regulatory action is necessary. However, in other cases, AICIS advises changes to inventory terms or introduces guidance on safe introduction and handling.

Implications For Manufacturers And Service Providers

For manufacturers and chemical introducers, the evaluations serve as a critical signal to review current practices and compliance measures. Suppliers may need to revise safety documentation or reformulate products if recommendations are adopted. Service providers, such as regulatory consultants and risk assessors, also have an opportunity to support clients through potential transitions.

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