It is only since the end of October that companies have been able to enter the required information on substances of very high concern (SVHC) in articles into the SCIP database of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Until then, this was only possible in test mode. But already now the entry of the data is requested in the supply chain. 

This means that big international trading companies no longer only ask whether a hazardous substance is contained and if so, which one. All suppliers are now additionally asked, whether they have made the SCIP-entry with significantly more detailed product-specific information. This poses new challenges not only for individual suppliers but also for all suppliers of products – with immediate effect.

There are, however, good and reasonable facilitations and support possibilities for companies. First of all, the SCIP database concept from the start provides for third parties to be called in for support. Authorized consultants and (IT-) service providers can access the database and enter the required information on products placed on the market into the SCIP database.

In addition, important facilitations for distributors and manufacturers of systems, the so-called assemblers, have been introduced shortly before the SCIP database was released: They will still have to adapt processes, obtain additional information and register the company. But retailers will benefit directly from the possibility of “Simplified SCIP Notification” (SSN) and assemblers from the possibility of “referencing”. Thus, the retailer does not have to create a complete SCIP dossier of his own, but he will provide the SCIP number of his upstream supplier. This can even be done simultaneously, i.e. in one step for all products concerned by uploading a list. Similarly, the assembler is spared the need to create a separate dossier for each component, which he then assembles into a complex end product. He only has to establish the reference to the SCIP dossier for the component. The dossier for his end product must of course still be created by him.