 |
REACH
is a Regulation designed to manage and control the
potential hazards and risks to human health and the
environment from the manufacture, import and use of
chemicals within the EU and at the same time enhance
the competitiveness of European industry by fostering
innovation. REACH is an acronym for the Registration,
Evaluation and Authorisation of CHemicals. A fourth
stage of REACH is restriction. |
The
primary objectives of the Regulation are:
- Protection of
human health and the environment
- Maintenance and
enhancement of the competitiveness of the EU chemical
industry
- Prevention of
fragmentation of the internal market
- Increased transparency
- Integration with
International aspects
- Promotion of non-animal
testing
- Conformity with
EU International obligations under the WTO (World Trade
Organisation)
Key
Aspects
- All substances
within the scope of REACH that are either manufactured
in or imported into the EU at quantities > 1 tonne
per manufacturer/importer per year, will have to be
registered
- Existing’
substances are to be registered on a phased basis and
within certain quantity thresholds
- Some substances
will be subject to evaluation
- The uses of substances
of very high concern may need to be authorized
- Manufacture or
use of high risk substances may be subject to restriction
- Greater responsibility
for actors throughout the supply chain
- Reversal of the
burden of proof from Authorities to Industry
- European Chemicals
Agency (ECHA), which is located in Helsinki, will manage
the regulation in co-operation with Member State Competent
Authorities
Who
will REACH Affect
As
REACH has a very wide scope, it will affect a wide range
of businesses in Ireland across many sectors. Those
who manufacture substances, or who import them into Ireland
from outside the EU will have obligations, along with those
who produce or import articles. Additionally, business
that use chemicals, perhaps in formulating a products, will
also have obligations under REACH, along with those who
are in the business of distributing chemicals.
Affected
by REACH? – Call Jordan Business Systems now for free
assessment.