The directive on the registration, assessment and approval of chemicals
entered into force for all EU states on 1 June 2007. The directive requires
manufacturers and importers to have all chemicals which are produced and
marketed in quantities in excess of one ton assessed and registered. Certain
substances which pose a particular potential danger require official
approval.
REACH provides the theoretical framework for the EU's new law on chemicals.
Implementation will be regulated by various technical guidelines which are
currently being drafted by the EU Commission. As an initial step, all
substances are to undergo preliminary registration from June to December 2008.
The registration phase will then ensue. All information must be furnished to
the new EU chemicals agency in Helsinki in a registration dossier, together
with documentation verifying safe use of the substance concerned.
REACH - In force since June 2007
