REACH Regulation: Ensuring Chemical Safety and Sustainability

Introduction to REACH

REACH stands for the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals. It is a key regulatory framework implemented by the European Union designed to ensure the safe production, import, and use of chemicals within its market. This regulation aims to protect human health and environmental safety while maintaining and enhancing the competitiveness of the EU chemical industry. It is committed to promoting business innovation and driving sustainable development in society.

Legislative Background

The comprehensive legislation on chemical management was adopted by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union on December 13 and 18, 2006, respectively. The REACH Regulation came into full effect on June 1, 2007. It mandates that chemicals produced/imported in quantities exceeding one ton per year must be registered under REACH from June 1, 2018, to be allowed into the EU market.

The Precautionary Principle and REACH

At the heart of REACH is the precautionary principle, which posits that in the absence of clear information about the properties and potential risks of a chemical substance, it should be considered harmful. It may pose risks to human safety and health, the life and health of animals and plants, and the environment. Therefore, thorough experimental studies and risk analyses are required to prove a substance is safe. The regulation demands that all chemicals imported or produced in Europe undergo a comprehensive procedure—registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction—to ensure environmental and human safety through better and simpler identification of chemical components. This directive includes several key stages: registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction. Each product must have a registration dossier detailing its chemical composition, how the manufacturer uses these chemicals, and a safety assessment report. All information is managed by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), which assesses each dossier and may take stricter measures if it finds the chemical poses a risk to human health or the environment.

Only Representative (OR)

Under REACH, non-EU manufacturers or producers can fulfill registration, authorisation, and related obligations by appointing an Only Representative (OR) within the EU. The OR assumes the responsibilities and risks of the importer under the EU REACH regulatory framework on behalf of non-EU companies, facilitating fully compliant cooperation.

Capot’s Commitment to REACH Compliance

Years ago, Capot appointed an OR to ensure we adhere to our obligations under REACH. Hence, our European clients can rest assured that Capot’s practices are fully in line with duties under REACH, including product classification, registration, labeling, packaging, documentation formats, and other requirements.

For More Information

For more information about Capot's collaboration with REACH, please contact support@capotchem.com. To learn more about REACH, please visit the European Chemicals Agency's dedicated page: https://echa.europa.eu/regulations/reach/understanding-reach。