REACH intends to achieve its goal by requiring business to fully ascertain the risks posed by the use of chemicals. For certain hazardous substances this means that a company needs to define in detail exactly how to safely use a chemical.
Another of REACH’s mechanisms is an authorisation process for substances identified as being of very high concern to human health or the environment. Authorisation means the hazardous chemical can only be used in ways that are authorised by the European Commission. Any authorised substance is also considered a candidate for substitution with “safer” alternatives.
But how the authorities know what chemicals require authorisation? Much is known about certain substances but for many there were information shortfalls, which prevent a suitable risk assessment. That’s where the REACH registration process comes in.
REACH Registration
For many firms REACH registration is the most costly and time-consuming part of compliance. Generally, anyone that makes or imports a chemical into the EU above one tonne per year needs to register it with the European Chemicals Agency (Note: some exemptions to REACH Registration may apply). Registration involves producing a dossier of information in collaboration with other manufacturers or importers. The obligations for manufacturers and importers of a substance are essentially the same.
And if you buy a chemical from a supplier outside the EU, you are an importer!
We've developed exclusive and easy to understand information for Manufacturers and Importers, telling them what they need to do to register for REACH. And what's more, it's free to access – Click Here!
Even if you source your chemicals from within the EU, the chances are you could still be affected. We mentioned that REACH controls the use of chemicals...
Downstream users of chemicals
Everyone that uses a chemical, for example, to make a product, to clean a floor, to lubricate a machine, to print on their packaging (etc etc...) has to make sure that their use of a chemical is listed within the dossier. If this sounds like you, you are a “downstream user” and if your use of a chemical isn’t part of the registration, then it’s against the law to use it!
We've developed a list of the actions that downstream users can take now – Click here to go to the web page and feel free to forward the link to your friends and colleagues, customers and suppliers!
In conclusion...
So in practice then, everyone that manufactures a product within the EU is likely to be affected to some degree. Worried? – No need to be, REACHReady is here to help and those ready first will be in a better position to compete.
If you think REACH applies to you then the clock is ticking. Why not "Join for free" to access exclusive information that will help get you started.