Core Components of UK REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals)

UK REACH is built on four key pillars that regulate the management of chemicals in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales). These core components ensure that chemicals are used safely while minimizing risks to human health and the environment.

1. Registration of Chemical Substances

Purpose:

  • Ensures that all chemicals manufactured or imported into Great Britain (≥1 tonne per year) are assessed for safety.

Key Requirements:

  • Manufacturers and importers must register substances with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
  • Registration includes chemical identity, hazard classification, intended uses, and risk management measures.
  • A ‘one substance, one registration’ principle applies, meaning all registrants of the same substance must submit data jointly.

Impact:

  • Prevents unsafe chemicals from entering the market.
  • Encourages companies to assess the risks of their substances before placing them in the supply chain.

2. Evaluation of Substances

Purpose:

  • Ensures that registration dossiers meet data requirements and identifies substances needing further assessment.

Key Requirements:

  • The HSE evaluates dossiers to verify compliance with safety regulations.
  • Substance evaluations determine if additional testing is required.
  • The process helps identify substances of potential concern that require regulatory action.

Impact:

  • Improves data quality and ensures that manufacturers provide reliable safety information.
  • Enables early identification of harmful chemicals.

3. Authorisation of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs)

Purpose:

  • Controls the use of hazardous substances to reduce risks to human health and the environment.

Key Requirements:

  • Substances classified as SVHCs (such as carcinogens or endocrine disruptors) are placed on the UK REACH Authorisation List.
  • Companies must apply for authorisation to continue using these substances, proving that safer alternatives are unavailable.
  • If no authorisation is granted, these substances must be phased out.

Impact:

  • Encourages the development of safer alternatives to hazardous substances.
  • Reduces exposure to toxic and environmentally harmful chemicals.

4. Restriction of Hazardous Chemicals

Purpose:

  • Limits or bans substances that pose unacceptable risks to health and the environment.

Key Requirements:

  • The UK REACH Restriction List outlines chemicals subject to controls or bans.
  • Restrictions can apply to manufacture, import, supply, or use of a substance.
  • Some restrictions limit concentration levels, while others prohibit substances entirely.

Impact:

  • Protects workers, consumers, and the environment from harmful substances.
  • Prevents the spread of dangerous chemicals in everyday products.

Additional Supporting Mechanisms in UK REACH

Beyond the core components, UK REACH includes supporting mechanisms that enhance its effectiveness:

Compliance and Enforcement: HSE monitors industry compliance and imposes penalties for non-compliance.

Substitution and Innovation: Companies are encouraged to find safer, sustainable alternatives to restricted chemicals.

Data Sharing and Animal Testing Reduction: UK REACH promotes data sharing to minimize redundant testing, especially animal testing.

International Trade Considerations: Businesses importing/exporting chemicals must comply with both UK and EU REACH if trading with Northern Ireland or the EU.

Conclusion

UK REACH ensures chemical safety through registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction. These core components work together to protect human health and the environment, while also promoting sustainable innovation in the chemical industry.