REACH

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) established REACH as a law to protect the environment and public health from potential chemical dangers while also making the EU chemicals sector more competitive. In an effort to minimise the amount of animal testing, it also encourages the use of substitute techniques for hazard assessment of drugs.

How does REACH work?

REACH provides guidelines for gathering and evaluating data about the characteristics and risks associated with various chemicals. Businesses must register their drugs, and in order to do this, they must collaborate with other businesses who are also registering the same chemical.

Manufacturer

If you make chemicals, either to use yourself or to supply to other people (even if it is for export), then you will probably have some important responsibilities under REACH.

Importer

If you buy anything from outside the EU/EEA, you are likely to have some responsibilities under REACH. It may be individual chemicals, mixtures for onward sale or finished products, like clothes, furniture or plastic goods.

Downstream users

Most companies use chemicals, sometimes even without realising it, therefore you need to check your obligations if you handle any chemicals in your industrial or professional activity. You might have some responsibilities under REACH.

Companies established outside the EU

Non-EU companies exporting products to the EU aren't obligated by REACH. Importers within the EU or the only representative of a non-EU manufacturer in the EU bear the responsibility for REACH requirements like registration.

Registration

Manufacturers and importers of chemicals are required to register their chemical substances with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) if they produce or import them in quantities exceeding one ton per year. Registration involves providing detailed information on the properties, uses, and safety measures related to the chemical substances.
Evaluation

ECHA, along with the national authorities of EU member states, evaluates the information submitted during the registration process. The evaluation aims to ensure that the substances' uses do not pose unacceptable risks to human health or the environment. ECHA can request further testing or risk assessments if necessary.
Authorization

Substances of very high concern (SVHCs), which are particularly hazardous, may require authorization for specific uses. Companies seeking to use such substances must apply for and obtain authorization from ECHA, demonstrating that the risks are adequately controlled or that there are no suitable alternatives.
Restriction

REACH allows for the restriction of certain hazardous substances or their uses when there are risks to human health or the environment. Restrictions can be proposed by EU member states, ECHA, or industry stakeholders, and they require a regulatory process to be adopted.
Communication

REACH promotes the free flow of information on chemicals in the supply chain. Manufacturers, importers, and downstream users are required to communicate information about the safe use of chemicals to other actors in the supply chain, including customers and consumers.

REACH compliance

All Nedstar extra neutral alcohol products are Reach certified. This means they comply with EU regulations regarding the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. REACH is there to protect human health and the environment from the mismanagement of chemicals.

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