Kemikaalisäädös

Kemikaalisäädös refers to legislation and regulations governing the use, production, and distribution of chemical substances. These regulations are put in place to protect human health and the environment from potential harm caused by chemicals. In Finland, the primary legislation concerning chemicals is the Chemicals Act (Kemikaalilaki) and its related decrees. These laws aim to ensure that chemicals are handled safely throughout their lifecycle, from manufacturing to disposal.

The European Union has also established comprehensive chemical regulations, most notably REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals). REACH is a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. It requires companies that manufacture or import chemicals into the EU to register them with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). This registration process involves providing data on the properties and uses of the chemical, as well as assessing its risks.

Kemikaalisäädös also addresses specific types of chemicals, such as biocides, plant protection products, and cosmetics, each with their own set of rules. The enforcement of these regulations is typically carried out by national authorities, such as the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes). The goal of kemikaalisäädös is to promote the safe use of chemicals and to foster innovation by ensuring a high level of protection for human health and the environment.