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REACH

Introducing REACH

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Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and restriction of Chemicals (REACH)
Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006
18 December 2006

REACH is the new regulation controlling chemicals in Europe. It was entered into force on June 1, 2007. Registration of new substances (i.e. non-phase-in substances) began on June 1, 2008. Pre-registration of existing substances (i.e. phase-in substances) began June 1, 2008 and will end December 1, 2008. If a chemical is not pre-registered by December 1, 2008, you may not sell the substance or product containing that substance in the EU until it is registered (i.e. no access to market). The substances registered are those within the scope of the regulation where ≥ 1 ton per annum is manufactured or imported into the EU. Substances are registered with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in Helsinki.

In early 2009, the EU will publish a list (a “candidate list”) of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC). These substances will need to be registered by December 1, 2010. All remaining substances (estimated to be approximately 30,000) must be registered by June 1, 2013 or 2018 based on per annum manufacturer or import.

Chemical substances can be:
  1. A substance on its own.
  2. A substance in a “preparation” (a mixture such as ink or paint).
  3. A substance that makes up an “article” (an object that is produced with a special shape, surface or design, such as a battery, an electronic component ,an automobile or clothes).

All partners in the selling channel have some accountability under REACH. The specific responsibilities are based on the function of the party. Members of the channel include the chemical manufacturer, importers, distributors, traders, and downstream users.

A substance within an article needs to be registered if both of the following conditions are met:
  1. The substance is intended to be released as part of the normal function of the article (such as a scented candle).
  2. The amount of the substance in the article totals more than 1 ton per producer or importer per year.

In addition, after June 2011, the substance must be registered if the article contains a SVHC and more than 1 ton of the substance is produced or imported annually and the substance in the article is present above a concentration of .1% weight by weight. The guidance clearly states that only substances that are intentionally released from articles require registration.

Several European government sites provide excellent information including the UK site listed below:

http://www.hse.gov.uk/reach/

Finally, you may view and download REACH directives, guidance information and survey forms by clicking on the following links below.