EU Strategy for the Development & Validation of Test Methods

A European strategy for the development and validation of test methods (EU Test Method Development & Validation Strategy) is an important policy priority for the Netherlands to ensure the level of testing for chemical safety. The aim of this strategy is to make reliable test methods available more quickly, including animal-free alternatives. This is important because innovations in substances and materials often develop more rapidly than the test methods needed to assess their safety.

The Netherlands (Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, NVWA, RIVM and Bureau REACH) collaborates with France, ECHA, EFSA and the OECD. Together, they have developed a plan for an EU working group under the One Substance One Assessment (OSOA) expert group. This brings together different regulatory frameworks for risk assessment, thereby strengthening the strategy. The European Commission (DG ENV) coordinates this working group, with active participation from RIVM.

The strategy focuses on promoting innovation internationally, reducing the costs of test methods, reducing animal testing and harmonising test methods, including through the OECD. Strong cooperation with other countries and organisations is essential in this regard. Due to rapid technological developments and a lack of coordination and funding for the required test methods, delays and additional costs arise for both industry and regulators. RIVM and Bureau REACH contribute to improving this situation through their expertise and international network.