A new EC directive on the use of solvents in paints and vehicle refinish products could save repairers money.

The Retail Motor Industry Federation says directive 2004/42/EC, due shortly to be part of UK law, will involve a permit system simpler than that applied to the existing regulations on solvents. It says compliance will eventually cost body repairers an annual sum of around £134 rather than the current £879 cost.

The simplified authorised arrangements for solvent users are due to come into effect in January 2007.

The present Solvent Emissions Directive’s requirement for bodyshops to produce solvent management plans will be replaced by the supply of compliant products from manufacturers.