What is REACH?
REACH is the European Union’s new directive on the Regulation, Evaluation, Authorization and restriction of Chemicals. The central aim of REACH is to better protect human and environmental health through more effective chemical identification and restriction. Implemented on June 1st, 2008, REACH applies to all companies exporting chemicals to the EU. This includes more than just chemical companies: the directive affects any sector using chemicals, including automotive, cosmetic, electronic and textile companies, among others. In short, any established company which exports products containing chemicals to the EU must either register under REACH or appoint an "only representative" to register for them.
What do I have to do?
Exporters should first determine if their products are affected by REACH. This can be done using REACH’s online “Navigator” utility, accessed here. This utility allows exporters to research their chemicals within the REACH database, and informs the exporter on their obligations under REACH.
If possible, exporters should also pre-register their product. Importantly, pre-registration helps guarantee against products being banned by the EU. Pre-registration also allows exporters more time to collect the requisite information for their final registration. Information on pre-registration can be found here. Pre-registration ends on December 1st, 2008.
REACH registration does involve fees, which vary with a substance's quantity and toxicity. Reduced fees will be available to smaller companies, who have the option of submitting joint registrations.
Help!
Click here for general information on REACH.
Click here for guidance on REACH, including booklets on registration and pre-registration.
Click here for FAQ on REACH.