Update on Microplastics Reporting
4 December 2025
Starting now, companies can report their annual microplastics releases to ECHA under the EU microplastics restriction. These reporting obligations apply to uses exempt from the EU-wide ban. First reports are due by 31 May 2026 and should include estimated emissions for the year 2025: https://echa.europa.eu/-/echa-ready-to-receive-reports-on-microplastics-emissions.
Reports need to be prepared in IUCLID format and submitted via REACH-IT.
New ISO 10993-1:2025 Standard for Medical Device Biological Evaluation Released
21 November 2025
ISO 10993-1 is the cornerstone standard for biological evaluation of medical devices. It defines the principles and requirements for assessing a device’s biological safety within the broader risk management framework established by ISO 14971.
The standard guides manufacturers and evaluators through the process of identifying, assessing, and managing biological risks associated with materials, design choices, and tissue contact during a device’s intended use.
OECD QSAR Toolbox Software Update Release
10 October 2025
The latest version 4.8 of the OECD QSAR Toolbox has been released. The OECD QSAR Toolbox is used for in silico assessments, including data gap filling, to ensure robust and reliable results across various regulatory frameworks (such as chemicals, plant protection products, biocides & medical devices). The OECD QSAR Toolbox is a comprehensive risk assessment tool that fosters safer and more sustainable solutions for industry while reducing the need for animal testing.
What’s new in the OECD QSAR Toolbox v.4.8?
- New input functionality (metabolite database)
- Enhanced import and visualisation of structural data and metadata from metabolism databases
- Updated and new profilers, simulators, databases and inventories
- Revised documentation of (Q)SAR predictions in line with the OECD (Q)SAR Assessment Framework
The updated features and enhanced functionalities allow the OECD QSAR Toolbox v.4.8 to continue supporting informed decisions based on scientific data, which ultimately contributes to the better protection of human health and the environment.