REACH, which stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals, is a comprehensive European Union regulation aimed at improving the protection of human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals.
Enforced by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), REACH applies to all chemical substances manufactured or imported into the EU in quantities of one tonne or more per year. It requires companies to identify and manage the risks associated with the substances they produce or use, ensuring they are safely handled throughout the supply chain.
To be REACH compliant, companies must register their chemical substances with ECHA, providing detailed information on their properties, uses, and safety measures. If a substance is considered hazardous or is listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC), additional steps such as notification, authorisation, or substitution may be required. Compliance also involves clear communication, including the provision of Safety Data Sheets (SDS), to downstream users and customers, ensuring safe usage at every stage of the product’s lifecycle.
Failure to comply with REACH can result in penalties, restrictions, or loss of market access in the EU. Therefore, REACH compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a business-critical issue for companies dealing with chemicals. It fosters greater transparency, environmental responsibility, and accountability in the global chemicals market, encouraging safer innovation and sustainable practices.
