REACH: Regulation of Chemicals in the EU and UK

REACH, an acronym for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals, is a critical legislative framework for controlling chemicals in the EU, effective in the UK since June 1, 2007.

Objectives and Requirements of REACH

REACH aims to enhance the safety of chemical manufacture, supply, and use. Understanding its requirements is crucial for all companies, as any could be affected by this legislation.

Key Aspects of REACH

Under REACH:

• Suppliers must register chemicals, which are then assigned a registration number.
• This number is included on Safety Data Sheets alongside Exposure Scenarios, detailing safe use conditions for each chemical.
• Users must adhere to the provided safety guidelines or demonstrate their own measures meet or exceed these standards.

Who Needs to Provide a Safety Data Sheet?

Safety Data Sheets are typically required from:

• Suppliers of substances or mixtures classified as hazardous under CLP Regulations.
• Suppliers of substances that are persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic, or very persistent and very bio-accumulative.
• Suppliers of substances listed by the European Chemicals Agency as of very high concern.

This list is not exhaustive and more information can be found on the HSE website.

Compliance with REACH

Compliance with REACH is mandatory for businesses dealing with chemicals, ensuring the protection of human health and the environment.

Further Information and Resources

For more detailed information on REACH and its implications, visit hse.gov.uk/reach.

Conclusion

REACH plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safe handling and use of chemicals within the EU and UK, making compliance a priority for relevant businesses.