The training will be made available online for classification expert(s), in the form of a recorded webinar, so that expert(s) can watch the webinar at a time convenient for them and also for refresher training if needed.

The training includes:

• DetNet web tool usage (explaining the User Manual) and associated procedures
• Classification process (based on A.I.S.E.’s classification explanatory notes)
• Classification records: importance of records, how to fill the standard form, etc.

A self-assessment tool will also be available with questions on the training content.

Note: All classification experts will have to commit to follow the training within the first months of membership.

In-house company classification expert(s) or retained consultant(s) accredited to use DetNet database should fulfil at least one of the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or biology from a recognised university/college and at least 5 years industry/regulatory safety/toxicology experience (e.g. CLP Regulation and associated guidance, in particular criteria for skin/eye effects, knowledge on formulation and chemical compositions of detergents);
• Relevant (e.g. toxicology, biochemistry, pharmacy, chemistry) master’s degree from a recognised university/college and at least 3 years industry/regulatory safety/toxicology experience;
• Relevant (e.g. toxicology, biochemistry, pharmacy, chemistry) PhD from a recognised university/college and at least 2 years industry/regulatory safety/toxicology experience;
• Candidates holding a further relevant professional qualification (e.g. European Registered Toxicologist (ERT), Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (DABT) or being members of internationally recognised groups of experts may not have to meet the above criteria;
• Other candidates with qualifications not listed above will be considered by the DetNet manager on a case-by-case basis.

The expert should have experience in proposing classifications and discussing them with regulatory authorities and should be prepared to share their experience on regulatory acceptance of bridging strategies with peers in other companies and External Experts.

The DetNet database can be used by a classification experts nominated by a company or by one of the external experts.

A classification expert appointed by a company can be:

• A company employee (in-house expert) or
• A consultant contracted by the company to carry out classification assessments.

“Company-retained consultant” means that a company has a separate contract with a consultant of its choice to perform classification assessments (and any other work covered by that contract). This consultant acts as an internal expert for that company, which nominated them for the purpose of DetNet.

Note: The consultancy contract is solely between the company and the consultant, no link with A.I.S.E. or with DetNet.

Several independent consultants offered their services in case companies wanting to use the DetNet database do not have “in-house” expertise. These experts are not A.I.S.E. employees but independent consultants offering their services to companies, in relation to DetNet, on a private basis.

Each company choosing to use their services is responsible for checking the competence of the expert of their choice, as they are responsible for the contractual relationship they establish with the expert. A.I.S.E. takes no liability with regard to the use made of the experts they make available.

The role of an expert (in-house, contracted or external) is to:

• Undertake training prior to the use of the DetNet database and demonstrate competency in application of the classification approach;
• Use the classification explanatory notes developed by A.I.S.E. to classify detergent and cleaning products for skin and eye irritation/corrosion;
• Compare the composition of the untested mixture to the reference formulations included in DetNet database and select the most appropriate ones for classification purposes, as applicable;
• Complete the agreed level of documentation to support classification decisions;
• Refer issues, inadequacies or problems with the guidance and gaps in the DetNet database to the DetNet manager (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.);
• Discuss and explain classification decisions with national authorities when required - such issues are to be notified to DetNet manager (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)which will provide support as necessary.

Nomination process:

• The company completes the expert nomination form and sends it to the DetNet manager (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). The first nomination of the expert(s) by the company is available upon registration;
• The nomination form is submitted to the DetNet Manager for review against the eligibility criteria; the DetNet manager recommends (or not) inclusion into the Expert Pool;
• The DetNet Manager informs the company of the decision (including reasons if nomination not accepted and available options e.g. undergo external training and re-apply in a couple of months);
• If the nomination is accepted, the expert signs a non-disclosure agreement with A.I.S.E. and commits to follow the training within the first months of membership;
• The DetNet manager assigns a personal password to the expert for access to the DetNet database;
• In the event a nomination is not accepted, the company has right of appeal by submitting additional justification in writing to the DetNet Manager (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.);
• Expert access to DetNet is conditional on the company’s membership period;
• Company will inform the DetNet Manager (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) if/ when any change of the appointed expert (e.g. leaves the company or is replaced).

The process for nominating any additional experts is covered in the DetNet members area.