Press Release: First REACH registration closes: a step nearer to safer use of chemicals in the EU

A large proportion of the total volume of chemicals produced and used in the EU, as well as the most dangerous chemicals, have now been registered at the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The 30 November 2010 deadline for registration of widely-used chemicals was set by REACH, the Regulation for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. As a result of REACH, European industry will possess more in-depth knowledge of the potentially hazardous effects of the chemicals they are dealing with. This will lead to safer use of chemicals, increased industrial competitiveness and a cleaner environment. Under the REACH system companies cannot place a chemical substance they manufacture or import on the EU market unless it has been registered with ECHA within the applicable deadline.

European Commission: Memo/10/631: REACH system for safer use of chemicals: FAQs http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/10/631&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

---