Developed in response to the new legislation, the software allows manufacturers to capture critical data, make decisions based on an analysis of this data, and pass the data to the IUCLID 5 database—a central database, provided by the EU for the storage and retrieval of detailed hazard information of chemical substances.

The system is made up of three principal modules. The Wercs’ Substance Information Management System (WercsSIMS) provides the capability for manufacturers to manage the substance information data associated with their suppliers, allowing them to cross-reference their products to assess which chemicals will be impacted by REACH. In addition, manufacturers will be able to see the impact certain chemicals will have on their formulations. The IUCLIDSync module allows the system to be plugged into the IUCLID 5 database, eliminating the need to manually upload data and allowing the data to be controlled and transferred between databases without significant rework. Finally, the WercsDownstream is a portal that helps end-users and manufacturers to communicate effectively, enabling them to check if risk management measures included in the extended SDS are relevant to their conditions of use. It also allows end-users to communicate new uses for a product back to the supplier.

Starting in 2007, all chemical companies that manufacture or import chemicals in volumes greater than one ton in the EU will be subject to REACH legislation, which will require the affected manufacturers to gather and report comprehensive data on physical, chemical, toxicological, and eco-toxicological properties of all chemicals manufactured in or imported into the EU. Failure to register will mean that the chemicals cannot be manufactured or imported.