What is REACH?

REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) is a European Union regulation concerning the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemical substances. It aims to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals, while enhancing the competitiveness of the EU chemicals industry. It requires companies to register chemicals they manufacture or import into the EU, assess the hazards and risks associated with their use, and communicate this information down the supply chain. Certain chemicals may be subject to authorisation or restriction.