New REACH Rules Will Reduce Animal Use For Assessing Sensitization, Other Endpoints

Alternative testing methods addressing key events in the OECD's adverse outcome pathway for skin sensitization may be sufficient to fulfill REACH data needs under a new rule slated for implementation later this year. Another pending change is expected to reduce firms' dependence on animal tests to evaluate skin and eye irritation and acute toxicity as the final REACH deadline for phase-in substances draws closer.