REACH – Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals – is the European Regulation n. 1907/2006 which applies to all substances (such or components of mixtures or articles) produced, imported or used in the EU.
REACH is defined as the “Chemistry Regulation” and not “chemical companies” because it involves various product sectors that use chemical products, including: textiles and clothing, leather, wood and furniture, paper and printing, rubber and plastics, metals and derivative products, electronic equipment, electronic systems and consumer electronics.
In addition, REACH also applies to those who have business activities, such as importers of substances, mixtures or articles and also involves manufacturers and importers of substances or mixtures used in sectors excluded from the scope of the Regulation itself (eg cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical).
His main goals are
- COLLECT DATA ON THE PROPERTY AND USES OF THE SUBSTANCE (NO DATA NO MARKET)
- DEMONSTRATE USE AND SAFE MANAGEMENT IN THE WHOLE LIFE CYCLE OF THE SUBSTANCE
- COMMUNICATE SAFE USES ALONG THE SUPPLY CHAIN
- FIND SUBSTITUTES / ALTERNATIVES FOR “HIGH CONCERN” SUBSTANCES
The essential elements of REACH are:
- Registration: who produces / imports a substance, in quantities > 1 t/y, has the obligation to “register” it at the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) presenting a Technical Dossier.
- Evaluation: the Competent Authorities of the Member States, under the coordination of the Agency, will evaluate the information provided by the Industry
- Possible Authorization and Restriction on the use of substances with particular properties dangerous for human health and/or for the environment.
