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If you're looking to place chemical products on the European market, understanding REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) is essential. This REACH regulation ensures that chemicals are produced and used safely across the EU.
REACH Compliance Checklist for Chemical Companies
For businesses, it means meeting strict requirements for REACH registration, safety documentation, and ongoing compliance. Here’s what you need to know:
Compliance Area | What It Means |
| Substance Registration | Any chemical handled in quantities of ≥1 tonne/year must be registered with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Submission of a technical dossier is required. |
| REACH Safety Data Sheets (SDS) | For hazardous chemicals, companies must prepare SDS that include hazard classification, emergency measures, and environmental impact, in the official EU language. |
| REACH SVHC & REACH authorization process | Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) may require authorization for use. Companies must also inform consumers and the supply chain about these chemicals. |
| Restrictions on Hazardous Substances | Ensure that chemicals meet REACH restrictions or bans listed in REACH Annex XVII (e.g., lead, phthalates, asbestos). |
| REACH testing requirements & Safety Assessments | If data is insufficient, additional toxicological and environmental testing may be required, with emphasis on using alternative methods to reduce animal testing. |
| REACH importer obligations & Supply Chain Compliance | Non-EU companies need an Only Representative (OR). Importers ensure compliance with REACH when bringing chemicals into the EU, and downstream users must also comply. |
| REACH CLP Classification, Labeling & Packaging | Chemicals must be classified, labeled, and packaged according to the CLP Regulation, including hazard pictograms, signal words, and precautionary statements. |
| REACH Poison Centre Notification (PCN) & REACH UFI | Hazardous mixtures must be reported to Poison Centers. Labels should include a Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) for easy identification in emergencies. |
| Market Surveillance & Enforcement | National authorities monitor compliance. Failure to comply can result in fines, bans, or legal consequences. |
Why REACH Compliance Matters
Ensuring your products meet REACH requirements isn’t just about staying out of trouble—it’s essential for gaining trust in the market, protecting health and safety, and ensuring long-term market access. Non-compliance could lead to serious financial and reputational damage, product delays, and even market bans.
On the flip side, REACH compliance shows a commitment to safety, transparency, and sustainability—important values for both consumers and investors.
Conclusion
Understanding REACH can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Freyr, we provide REACH compliance services, which can help you manage all aspects of REACH compliance—whether it’s substance registration, safety data sheet creation, or navigating restrictions and authorisations. We make sure you stay on top of regulations so you can focus on growing your business in the EU market.
Let us guide you through the process to ensure smooth and compliant market access. Contact Freyr to start your REACH compliance journey →
