Achieving the year's target of 500 claims

In 2008-09, the Hazardous Materials Information Review Commission began enacting its three-year plan to reduce the backlog of claims for exemption. Progress was significant: the Commission met its year-one goal of processing 500 claims - partly through operationalizing regulatory changes associated with previous amendments to the Hazardous Materials Information Review Act and also through administrative efficiencies. With such remarkable progress, the Commission is on track to eliminate its backlog completely by 2011, as planned. The electronic data integration project begun last year will add further momentum by allowing claim evaluators simultaneous access to five separate databases housing key scientific references, including newly digitized resources.

Developing new tools

In addition to improving internal processes, last year HMIRC also provided companies with tools to assist with claim preparation - including a checklist for drafting the material safety data sheets (MSDSs) required as part of their applications for exemption. The checklist is designed to help applicants produce more accurate, complete and compliant MSDSs, thereby accelerating evaluations.

CLAIM PROCESSING 2008-09

Backlog - March 31, 2008	512
Claims already in process	196
New Claims Registered	223
Refiled Claims	124
Claims Withdrawn	(68)
Claims Completed	(504)
Claims in Process at year end	(226)
Backlog - March 31, 2009	257

BACKLOG ELIMINATION - YEAR 1 OF 3

Backlog of Claims at March 31, 2008	512
Backlog of Claims at March 31, 2009	257
Backlog Reduction (%)	255 (49.8%)