ABSTRACT
In most cases, “legal” requirements are in reference to a company’s commitment and obligation to comply with federal, state, and local environmental regulations. Design input requirements relating to the product, including applicable statutory and regulatory requirements, shall be identified, documented and their selection reviewed by the supplier for adequacy. The supplier shall identify and plan the production, installation and servicing processes which directly affect quality and shall ensure that these processes are carried out under controlled conditions. A thorough environmental review during a design review can only provide a mechanism to ensure legal aspects are addressed for a new/modified product or process. It is, therefore, a mechanism to ensure compliance and avoid issues in the arena of product liability and product stewardship. The Resource Conservation Recovery Act is concerned with the “cradle-to-grave” handling of chemicals, but focuses most of its enforcement on issues surrounding waste and its ultimate disposal.
