The Committee for Socio-economic Analysis (SEAC) prepares the opinions of ECHA related to the socio-economic impact of possible legislative actions on chemicals in the following REACH processes. The final decisions are taken by the European Commission.
Restriction
The Committee evaluates the socio-economic impact of the proposed restriction on manufacture, placing on the market or use of a substance. This includes the assessment of comments and socio-economic analyses submitted by third parties.
Authorisation
SEAC assesses the socio-economic factors and the availability, suitability and technical feasibility of the alternatives associated with the uses of a substance when an application for authorisation is submitted. Third party contributions linked to the application will also be assessed.
ECHA's Executive Director's requests
SEAC issues opinions, on request of the Executive Director of ECHA, relating to socio-economic issues on any other aspects concerning the safety of substances on their own, in preparations or in articles. SEAC also provides scientific support to improve the cooperation between the Community, its Member States, international organisations and third countries relating to the safety of substances, as well as active participation in technical assistance and capacity building activities on the sound management of chemicals in developing countries.
Composition
The members of SEAC are appointed by ECHA's Management Board based on candidates nominated by the Members States for a renewable term of three years.
