November 2008 Update
What is REACH, and how is Champion prepared?
Who is affected by REACH?
When does REACH go into effect?
Where can I get more information?
Other Resources and Downloads

What is REACH, and how is Champion prepared?

REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) is an ongoing compliance process, within the European Union, which will have a significant impact to the business of all manufacturers, importers, and downstream chemical users. All have specific obligations under the new legislation and Champion Technologies is well informed of such developments. The Regulation entered into force on June 1, 2007 to streamline and improve the former legislative framework on chemicals. It will be progressively phased in during the next 11 years. Registration requires gathering data on physicochemical, toxicological and ecotoxicological properties of substances as well as specifying individual identified uses and assessments of the associated risks and safety measures connected to these uses. Under REACH, manufacturers and importers will have to submit information to the EU Chemical Agency in Helsinki.

In the Evaluation, the EU Member States can check the compliance of any dossier submitted for the registration of each substance and carry out a more detailed check according to the risk for human health and the environment. Authorisation will be required for each substance belonging to specific groups with certain hazardous properties.

REACH has one central aim: to protect human health and the environment from the risks arising from the use of chemicals. The regulation allows transition of all substances that have already been manufactured and exist in the European market. These are known as "phase-in" substances and require pre-registration within the specified period of June 1 to November 30, 2008. This timescale must be adhered to in order to ensure the continued manufacture and usage of substances prior to full registration. A plan is in place for Champion to make a thorough assessment of which products are likely to be impacted more than others and the necessary steps will be taken to assure that the relevant data will be gathered for full registration if required. Ensuring full continuity of business relationships throughout implementation of REACH is of the utmost concern to Champion Technologies and so we are available to provide necessary information to downstream users or chemical suppliers.

Who is affected by REACH?

Though REACH is an initiative of the EU, its effects ultimately extend worldwide. Substances which originate, or have a final destination in the EU require registration. Therefore nearly all products, suppliers and customers around the world will eventually be influenced by REACH.

When does REACH go into effect?

Where can I get more information?

Our REACH implementation team can be contacted at REACH.EU@champ-tech.com

Other Resources and Downloads

Europa REACH
European Commission - REACH In Brief
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
ECHA FAQ
European Chemicals Bureau (ECB)
ECH Q&A