FBDi (Fachverband der Bauelemente Distribution e.V.) the German distributor association has created a useful tool for all companies grappling with the EU REACH regulations.
It has posted the REACH XML Transfer Tool for transferring SVHC data (Substances of Very High Concern) available for immediate download on its website.
This uniform data transfer format makes it easy for companies down the entire supply chain to submit data on substances and products which must be disclosed to customers under the REACH regulation.
All major manufacturers have to adopt the IEC-compliant XML data format by the end of 2009 for submitting REACH-related information. FBDI is aiming to establish an industry standard with its XML Transfer Tool which provides the cost-effective and resource-saving gathering and processing of REACH data. Both the north American NEDA (National Electronics Distributors Association and European IDEA (International Distribution of Electronics Association) have adopted XML in an effort to promote its use and acceptance internationally.
Additional advantages to using this standardised format include the ability to select separately the products or components to be evaluated and the Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) are specifically listed in an Excel spreadsheet.
"The critical, overarching issue is coordination down the supply chain. REACH requires manufacturers to submit clearly organised data with definite informational value that leaves no room for interpretation," said FBDi managing director Wolfram Ziehfuss. "Manufacturers are called upon to adopt this data format in the interest of bringing uniform procedures for the whole industry sector."
He added, "It is a tremendous convenience as all parties down the supply chain - manufacturers, distributors, OEMs and distribution customers - are able to use it whatever systems they may have in place." For more information go to www.fbdi.de
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