Insights > REACH European Union
REACH Regulation: Environmental and Health Protection in the European Union
The REACH Regulation, which stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals, came into force on June 1, 2007. It is one of the cornerstone regulations of the European Union aimed at safeguarding human health and the environment from the dangers posed by chemicals. At the same time, the regulation seeks to enhance the competitiveness of the European chemical industry and promote methods for assessing the hazards posed by substances used.
REACH applies not only to substances used in industrial processes but also to those present in everyday life, such as detergents, paints, and products incorporated into common items like clothes, furniture, and electrical appliances. In fact, REACH applies to almost all companies operating within the European territory.
Company Obligations and Responsibilities
Under the REACH regulation, it is the responsibility of companies to demonstrate the safety of the substances they produce, market, or import into the EU, and to identify and manage associated risks. They must communicate the adopted risk management measures to users, and if the risks cannot be managed, authorities may impose restrictions on the use of substances, including banning them in extreme cases.
Companies must register substances with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), collaborating with other firms for the registration of the same substance to share data and reduce costs. ECHA and member states assess the compliance of registrations and the potential risks to health and the environment, taking restrictive measures if necessary.
Impact of REACH on Companies
REACH affects a wide range of sectors, including those that may not consider themselves directly involved in the use of chemicals. The roles defined by the regulation include manufacturers, importers, and downstream users, each with specific responsibilities:
- Manufacturers: Those who produce chemicals in the EU, either for their own use or for sale, have significant responsibilities under REACH.
- Importers: Those who import chemicals, mixtures, or finished articles (such as clothing or furniture) from outside the EU must ensure REACH compliance.
- Downstream Users: Companies that use chemicals in their production or professional processes must be aware of their regulatory responsibilities.
- Non-EU Companies: Companies outside the EU are not directly subject to REACH, but if they export to the EU market, they must ensure that their EU importers or exclusive EU representatives comply with the regulation’s requirements.
The Role of ECHA and Recent Updates
ECHA plays a central role in the REACH system, receiving registrations, assessing compliance, and working with member states to evaluate and manage the risks associated with chemicals. Recent updates include the addition of new substances of very high concern (SVHC) to the Candidate List, highlighting the EU’s ongoing commitment to protecting citizens and the environment from chemical risks.
In summary, REACH represents a balance between protecting health and the environment and supporting the European chemical industry, with a strong emphasis on corporate responsibility and sustainable innovation.
