Objectives of the REACH regulation

The REACH regulation (EC 1907/2006) entered into force in 2007 and applies within the EEA. Since that time REACH has evolved to reflect advancement of knowledge regarding various chemicals and their properties. Apart from protecting the environment and human health, there are a few other objectives:

• To assess the safety of chemical substances in use in the EU
• To promote innovation and competitiveness
• To promote alternative (non-animal) methos for the assessment of the hazards of substances.

REACH can impose bans or restrictions on the production, use, or import of certain harmful substances. Some chemical substances are regulated by other legislation, including:

• Radioactive substances
• Waste
• Pesticides

Target groups of the REACH regulation

REACH sets out the rules that European governments and companies must abide by. There are three specific target groups:

• Manufacturers and importers
• Distributors
• Users

REACH rules for manufacturers and importers

In this article we focus on the rules applicable for manufacturers and importers. These groups must register all substances produced or imported in quantities exceeding 1000 kg per year, in the REACH database. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) supervises this database. Manufacturers and importers must indicate whether a substance is harmful and how it should be managed. Fortunately, there is a REACH helpdesk! After filling out your information, you receive an overview of the action you need to take.

CLP regulation

REACH is closely connected to CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging), another EU regulation. The CLP defines how chemicals should be classified, labelled and packaged, according to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).