The American Chemistry Council (ACC) has released guidelines for the modernization of the nation's chemical safety laws. In a move seen as surprising by some industry watchers, ACC proposed 10 principles for effective chemical management.

Noted Council CEO Cal Dooley: "These 10 principles provide a roadmap needed to build a more effective chemical management system that ensures consumer safety while preserving America's role as the world's leading innovator and creator of safe and environmentally sound technologies and products."

Dooley said the organization is committed to working with Congress, the Obama administration, and other stakeholders to update chemical laws. "Modernizing the federal chemical management system properly will also help ensure that the business of chemistry continues to serve as a critical American asset," said Dooley It should not come as a surprise that the industry is supporting enhanced regulation, he added

At a press briefing, Dooley was joined by industry leaders, including Dave Kepler, executive vice president of Dow. Noted Kepler: "High-priority chemicals should be tested and evaluated under generally accepted scientific principles and the effort should be overseen by an Environmental Protection Agency that is provided adequate resources to do its job."

Among highlights of the principles:

• Chemicals should be safe for their intended use.
• EPA should prioritize chemicals to focus on those of highest concern.
• Business and EPA should work together to enhance public access to chemical health and safety information.