Defra publishes HSAC recommendations on adopting NAMs in UK chemical regulation

Article summary

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has published recommendations from the Hazardous Substances Advisory Committee (HSAC) on the adoption of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in UK chemical regulation post-Brexit. This follows Defra’s request for an updated opinion, subsequent to HSAC’s 2012 opinion. HSAC proposes that Defra establish criteria for integrating NAMs within a progressive regulatory framework for chemical safety assessments, beginning with their use in grouping and prioritisation, along with other key recommendations. HSAC also notes that the strategic implementation of NAMs within UK REACH and GB-CLP regulations could reduce, refine, and potentially replace animal testing, while improving the efficiency of hazard assessments.