Unlock Efficiency with IMDS Roll-out 14.3: A Comprehensive Guide
IMDS (International Material Data System) stands as a vital online database within the automotive industry, obliging manufacturers and suppliers to meet regulatory requirements. Developed by DXC Technology, IMDS undergoes continuous improvement to align with evolving regulations and streamline reporting processes. Following the recent rollout of IMDS Release 14.3, DXC Technology unveils the forthcoming IMDS Release 15.0, along with planned enhancements discussed at the IMDS summit. 1.Source of material: Allow bio-based content for classification 7.1. 2.MDS Report: New recipient fields 3. MDS Tree search The “Ingredients” view of each module/MDB is extended, where specific criteria for each search type will be identical to the ones provided in the Where-Used-Analysis. Three options will be provided for the different GADSL and SVHC categories. This way the first reference matching the search criteria will automatically be selected after opening the MDS. 4. MDS Analysis: Display Classification for Materials The classification of materials is now also displayed in the analysis view of each MDS. 5.Polymer Material Wizard: Flame retardants and plasticizers In the wizard dialog for creating the symbol for materials of classification 5.1.x, it will be possible to select a flame retardant and/or plasticizer code in the future the selection of a code in the drop-down menu will also add the code. 6. MDS Copy: Dialog to update referenced versions When manually copying an MDS or creating a new version, a dialog box was previously displayed. where you can select which references are to be updated and which are to be retained. The dialog is not displayed when the “Update MDS” screen is used to create a new version with the new update. 7. MDS Check: Display top-level supplier and MDS When checking an MDS, the ID/version and the suppliers of the most affected MDS will appear in future. In this way, these suppliers can be quickly identified, and an updated version is requested. 8. MDS Check: Only check the entered ranges of mechanical recyclate During the MDS check for recyclate, only entered data will be considered and only if the margin between pre-consumer and post-consumer recyclate exceeds 20%, no longer the calculated total percentage is checked. In conclusion, DXC Technology’s IMDS Release 15.0 promises significant improvements to the reporting process, aligning with evolving regulatory requirements and industry best practices. While specific rollout dates are pending, these enhancements mark a significant step forward in enhancing IMDS functionality and compliance. Stay tuned with ComplianceXL for further updates and support in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of IMDS regulation.
Deciphering REACH: Annex 14, Annex 17, and SVHC Distinctions
To oversee and manage the utilization of chemicals in the European Union (EU), the EU established the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) legislation. Enacted on June 1, 2007, REACH aims to ensure a high standard of protection for both the environment and public health while simultaneously enhancing the competitiveness of the European chemicals sector. In our exploration of “Meeting REACH requirements,” we identified three pivotal lists that EU manufacturers must be mindful of to ensure comprehensive compliance: 1. Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC): Chemicals with potential hazards to the environment or human health are listed on the SVHC or Candidate Lists. These substances undergo further scrutiny and may end up on the Authorization List. Manufacturers, importers, and downstream users have specific obligations if a substance is included on the Candidate List. If an SVHC is present in their product at a concentration exceeding 0.1% by weight, they must report it to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The purpose of this list is to monitor and prioritize compounds for future evaluation and regulation. The SVHC list is revised biannually, necessitating businesses to reassess product compliance and request data from suppliers to meet REACH standards. 2.The Authorization List (Annex XIV): Annex XIV of REACH, known as the Authorization List, comprises substances of very high concern (SVHC) posing serious risks to the environment or human health. Unless a specific exemption applies, companies using substances listed on the Authorization List must obtain authorization from ECHA before their use. The primary goal of the Authorization List is to phase out or restrict the use of hazardous substances gradually while promoting safer alternatives. 3.The Restriction List (Annex XVII): The Restriction List, or Annex XVII of REACH, imposes specific restrictions on the production, marketing, or use of hazardous chemicals. These legally binding restrictions aim to mitigate risks associated with substances, products, or processes. Restrictions may take the form of usage prohibitions, concentration thresholds, or other controls. In summary, the REACH legislation assigns distinct responsibilities to these lists: Substances of very high concern are identified on the Candidate List, triggering additional scrutiny. The use of chemicals listed on the Authorization List requires specific authorization. The use of certain hazardous substances is legally restricted according to the Restriction List. These lists collectively govern the use of chemicals in the EU, ensuring that businesses dealing with these substances adhere to relevant REACH requirements and regulations. With over 20 years of regulatory experience, ComplianceXL provides ongoing assistance to companies seeking compliance with REACH regulations, facilitating efficient risk assessments, compliance management, and accurate reporting for improved regulatory operations.
WEEE compliance
The WEEE directive compliance legislation is something almost any company that lists a computer or a piece of electronics in their assets will need to deal with eventually. For those engaged in manufacturing or selling anything with electronic or electrical components, this is one of the key components of environmental compliance management. WEEE stands for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment. An old computer isn’t just a heavy piece of rubbish when it reaches the end of its life. While its exterior may consist of glass, metal, and plastic, what’s inside can be quite hazardous. Older batteries are especially problematic, and if waste electronics go straight to landfill, chemicals like lead and mercury can leach out and end up polluting the soil and the water table. Private individuals can sometimes send their broken and dead laptops and computers back to the manufacturer for safe disposal, but for the manufacturers themselves WEEE compliance can be a headache. Of course, they’ll also have to stay within other directives as well – many of the raw materials used to make electronic components include mercury and other chemicals covered by the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive for example. Specialists like us can make sure your manufacturing company comes into environmental compliance of all kinds and stays that way. We understand WEEE, RoHS, REACH and others. With a software solution and the right staff training compliance is easy. We can also make sure it happens as efficiently as possible, so your workers can continue to add value to your business.