Regulation for chemical, hazardous substances

REACH is an EU chemical regulation that came into force on the 1st July 2007.

REACH stands for Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals.

Manufacturers or importers of chemical substances can be affected by REACH.

REACH obliges them to determine the hazardous properties of substances (e.g. if they are environmentally hazardous, toxic, carcinogenic) and assess the health and environmental effects. In addition, manufacturers or importers are obliged to inform the user of hazardous properties and clarify procedures for safe use of the substances.

REACH embraces all hazardous chemical substances which are produced in or imported into the EU in quantities of at least 1 tonne per year. These substances must be registered by the manufacturer or importer. Moreover, certain hazardous substances are restricted or prohibited by REACH.