Regulations concerning the manufacture and supply of chemicals are increasing worldwide. The major task of the regulatory affairs department is to keep abreast of these regulations, influence their development where practical/possible and ensure compliance. The Company range of agrochemicals, biocides and specialty chemicals is offered in over 60 countries and the registration team develops and initiates registration strategies for each of these territories. Once registration has been attained, the team monitors developments in each territory and takes any necessary action to retain registrations.

The regulatory affairs department undertakes initiation, monitoring and review of studies investigating the toxicology, ecotoxicology and environmental fate of Company products. Subsequent risk assessments, performed within the department also incorporate residue data where appropriate.

Many countries have programmes for continuous review of the properties of registered chemicals, especially agrochemicals. This involves periodic re-assessment of the relevant database and requirements for replacement studies, where those existing do not meet current guidelines. For chemicals produced by multiple suppliers, industry Task Forces have been assembled, to develop replacement data as required and the department represents the Company at a technical level.

For further information please contact Dr G H Pigott, Regulatory Affairs Manager, Direct Dial +44 (0) 1274 696624 gpigott@ahmarks.com