On 16 July 2025, the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS) released new chemical assessment statements under section 37 of the Industrial Chemicals Act 2019. The updates concern two substances widely used in personal care and agricultural products, potentially affecting compliance duties across supply chains in cosmetics, farming, and specialty chemicals.
One assessment covers Heptanoic acid, 1,1′,1′′-(1,2,3-propanetriyl) ester (CAS: 620-67-7), commonly used in personal care products. The second pertains to D-Glucopyranose, oligomeric, citrates, C10-16-alkyl glycosides, sodium salts (CAS: 1693733-02-6), an ingredient in soil conditioning agents. Both assessments conclude that risks to human health and the environment can be managed if introduced as defined.
Substance Risks and Use Cases Explained
The triglyceride-based Heptanoic acid ester is imported into Australia either neat or pre-formulated at up to 33% concentration in cosmetics. While it is a skin irritant in undiluted form, it does not meet the classification thresholds for hazards under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). Its use requires standard engineering controls during reformulation but poses no risk to consumers under typical usage.
By contrast, the alkyl glycoside salt used in agriculture is classified under GHS as toxic to aquatic life (Acute Category 2). However, it is not persistent, bioaccumulative or systemically toxic. Its application is restricted to soil conditioning at a diluted dose of up to 0.01%, with a maximum of 48.8 g/hectare.
Industry Implications and Compliance Outlook
For chemical introducers, these published statements impose clear parameters for lawful introduction, including volume caps, concentration limits, and use conditions. Under section 100 of the Act, all introducers must monitor for new hazard information and submit annual declarations.
Reformulators, contract manufacturers, and agribusiness operators must assess their exposure pathways and update safety data sheets, while downstream users such as logistics providers and distributors should ensure transport and storage align with the new classifications and guidance.
Action Points for Compliance Professionals
Stakeholders should now:
- Confirm product formulations align with the defined scope of assessment.
- Review site-specific engineering controls or PPE protocols for reformulation.
- Monitor for updates via the AICIS website or subscribe to chemical alerts.
