After a new regulation is introduced, what is the first step for a regulatory affairs professional if 60 percent of the company's products do not comply?

The initial step for a regulatory affairs professional in this scenario should be to communicate with the relevant internal departments. This is critical because understanding the extent of non-compliance and the implications of the new regulation requires collaboration and clear communication among various teams within the company. These departments may include regulatory, legal, quality assurance, and production, among others.

By engaging with these internal stakeholders, the regulatory affairs professional can gather necessary information and insights on the products in question, assess the company's current compliance status, and develop a coordinated strategy for addressing the regulatory challenges presented by the new regulation. This foundational communication is essential before taking any further action, such as seeking external advice or preparing documentation, as it ensures that all relevant perspectives are considered and that the company develops a cohesive approach to compliance.

Effective communication also helps in determining the feasibility of options like requesting waivers or implementing changes to bring the products into compliance. Therefore, prioritizing dialogue with internal departments aligns the organization towards a common goal of regulatory compliance and risk mitigation.