The SCHER provide the Commission with the scientific advice on questions relating to the toxicity and ecotoxicity of chemicals, biochemicals and biological compounds whose use may have harmful consequences for human health and the environment.
In particular, the SCHER addresses questions in relation to new and existing chemicals, the restriction and marketing of dangerous substances, biocides, waste, environmental contaminants, plastics and other materials used for water pipe work (e.g. new organic substances), drinking water, indoor and ambient air quality.
It also addresses questions relating to human exposure to mixtures of chemicals, sensitisation and identification of endocrine disrupters.
The members are appointed on the basis of their skills and experience in the fields in question and consistent with this a geographical distribution that reflects the diversity of scientific problems and approaches in the European Union.
The Directorate-General for Health and Consumer Protection also manages two other independent Scientific Committees on non-food products: For questions concerning the safety of food products, the European Commission consults the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).