REACH is the European Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. It entered into force in 2007, replacing the former legislative framework for chemicals in the EU.
Its purpose is to ensure a high level of protection for human health and the environment. This includes promoting alternative methods for the hazard assessment of chemical substances. It also aims to ensure free circulation of chemicals in the internal market and enhance competitiveness and innovation.
REACH is based on the principle that it is up to companies to ensure they manufacture, place on the market or use chemicals which are safe for human health and the environment.
To this end, REACH lays down rules and procedures, including rules for collecting and assessing information on the intrinsic properties of substances, and procedures for authorities to ban or restrict substances which pose unacceptable risks, or to make their use or placing on the market subject to an authorisation requirement.
REACH Events
A number of events were held to discuss key issues relating to the implementation of the REACH Regulation.
Brexit
- see specific sectoral guidance notices for stakeholders
- guidance from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) on impact of Brexit
Contacts
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ec [dot] europa [dot] eu (European Commission - REACH)