Legislation and enforcement

Current legislation for chemicals, foodstuffs, the environment, and medicines also applies to nanomaterials.

Regulatory tools, which may contribute to the safe handling of nanomaterials include:

Authorisation and registration procedures
Bans and restrictions on use
Declaration provisions
Self-monitoring by manufacturers
Emission and immission thresholds for water, air and soil
Maximum values for ingredients and impurities in food
Maximum values for workplace pollution
Quantity thresholds for storage and transport

Review of existing legislation

The relevant federal agencies are continually reviewing existing laws regarding possible adaptations, and deciding whether the methodological basis already allows them to be adapted to reflect the latest research findings. Switzerland is also involved in developing international standards for assessing the risks of nanomaterials.

More: Federal government activities

Developments abroad, particularly in the EU, are being incorporated in this review and the amendments.

Nano-specific amendments have already been implemented into ordinances. These amendments and the guidance documents published, forming part of the «Action plan for synthetic nanomaterials», are helping to ensure that nanomaterials are produced and used safely.

More: Applicable law in Switzerland