REACH stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals. Originally created by the European Union, REACH is a regulatory framework that sets strict controls on chemical substances to protect human health and the environment. Many countries worldwide have followed the example set by EU REACH, creating similar regulations that require manufacturers, importers, and downstream users to demonstrate that the chemicals in their products are safe.
Why is REACH important?
At its core, REACH places the burden of proof on companies to ensure that their chemicals pose minimal risk. By demanding detailed data on chemical properties, potential hazards, and exposure limits, REACH helps manage and mitigate the risks associated with using harmful substances. It also encourages innovation in finding safer alternatives, ultimately reducing the environmental impact of industrial and consumer products and safeguarding public health.
Scope & coverage of REACH
Because it addresses the entire supply chain, REACH covers chemical substances in a wide variety of products, ranging from industrial materials (used in factories or construction) to consumer goods (like textiles, electronics, or toys). Whenever a substance is produced, imported, or used above certain volume thresholds, companies must check whether that substance is regulated under REACH. If your product includes components that might contain chemicals of concern—such as paints, plastic additives, or solvents—REACH compliance will typically apply.
One of REACH’s key aims is to ensure that end-users, workers, and the broader environment face minimal risk from hazardous chemicals. This goal includes restricting or banning substances that pose an unacceptable level of harm and promoting safer alternatives where possible.
Curious how REACH stacks up against RoHS? Explore our comparison blog for the key differences you need to know.
Key elements of global REACH compliance
Although REACH regulations can vary by country, most REACH regulatory compliance frameworks share similar core elements. Understanding these requirements will help you navigate the specific rules in different jurisdictions.
Registration Requirements
A fundamental aspect of REACH compliance is registering substances with the relevant authority before manufacturing, importing, or selling them in significant quantities. This step typically involves submitting detailed information on chemical properties, hazards, and safe handling measures to prove the substance can be used responsibly.
Proof of Compliance
Under REACH compliance rules, manufacturers, importers, and sometimes downstream users must demonstrate that the chemicals in their products meet safety standards. Companies generally provide scientific evidence—such as test results and risk assessments—to confirm that substances pose minimal risk to human health and the environment.
Restricted & Hazardous Substances
Most REACH frameworks maintain a list of restricted or banned substances, particularly those identified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction. If your product contains any of these substances, you may be required to seek special authorization or switch to safer alternatives to uphold REACH compliance standards.
Reporting Obligations
Many jurisdictions with REACH-like regulations mandate periodic reporting. If you introduce new chemicals, adjust formulations, or increase production volumes, you must inform the appropriate authorities and may need to provide additional safety data to remain REACH compliant.
Documentation & Communication
Documentation is a cornerstone of REACH compliance. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and other compliance documents must accompany chemicals throughout the supply chain, ensuring that all stakeholders—manufacturers, importers, distributors, and end-users—receive the necessary information to manage potential risks effectively.
Dive deeper into REACH compliance on a global level with our comprehensive Global REACH Compliance e-book.
Global variations of REACH
Many countries have taken the EU’s lead in creating their own versions of REACH. While the overarching principles remain similar, there are key differences in thresholds, registration deadlines, and the types of documentation required.
- European Union (EU REACH): Overseen by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and generally considered the most comprehensive model.
- United Kingdom (UK REACH): Established after Brexit, administered by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), with separate registration processes from the EU.
- China (China REACH): Managed by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE), featuring its own substance inventory and labeling requirements.
For businesses that operate globally, ensuring REACH compliance means grappling with each region’s unique registration systems and data submission formats, which can increase complexity and cost.
Compliance challenges for companies
Remaining compliant across multiple REACH frameworks can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Different volume thresholds, restricted substance lists, and data requirements often complicate product development and supply chain management. Furthermore, regulatory changes arise regularly as new scientific insights emerge, demanding ongoing vigilance and adaptability to maintain compliance.
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Proactively manage your REACH compliance obligations with a single, comprehensive solution. Source Intelligence’s Global REACH solution leverages automation and in-house regulatory expertise to identify and mitigate risks associated with hazardous substances, ensuring your products meet REACH reporting requirements while preserving market access. Our platform automates supplier engagement, data collection, and documentation—collecting declarations, FMDs, and lab test results—so you can focus on core business objectives. Whether you need software or managed services, our solution is tailored to your needs, simplifying compliance processes and reducing potential risks to human health and the environment.
