Safe by Design concept and implementation regarding complex substances

This virtual meeting will include a perspective by Christian Micheletti (TEMAS) on SafebyDesign methodology and a discussion session facilitated by Christian Micheletti (TEMAS) on SafebyDesign methodology and a discussion session facilitated by Barry Hardy (Edelweiss Connect).

The Safe by Design (SbD) concept for nanomaterials and nano-enabled products has been developed by TEMAS and others under different flagship European initiatives to cover uncertainties and risks regarding the nanosize [1]. The concept helps innovators to be prepared for regulation and regulators to be prepared for innovation; establishing transparency and trust between innovators, regulators, and consumers. The final goal is to design safer products, applying the precautionary principle, so uncertainties and risks can be identified and managed as early as possible. The SbD concept enables the user to work independently at each phase of an innovation and development project. To materialise this concept, the Safe by Design Implementation Platform was developed by TEMAS as a web-based management structure, to support the industry working with advanced materials both in processes and product development. The final aim is that safer products arrive on the market in a cost-efficient manner, always taking into account hazard and exposure issues to workers, consumers, and environment. The application is regulatory-driven and fed by both hard regulations (REACH, Occupational Health, Cosmetics, Biocides, Pesticides) and soft regulations [Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEA)] anticipating future requirements, so users are better prepared for upcoming regulations in a cost-efficient way. Examples of how to use the methodology in different developmental settings, innovation process stages, and regulatory contexts will be provided.

[1] Kraegeloh A, Suarez-Merino B, Sluijters T and Micheletti C Nanomaterials 2018 (8) 239