ECHA SVHC Candidate List Additions Require Urgent Elastomer and Coating Compliance Audits
Buyers must audit polymer and cleaning solvent suppliers to declare newly added hazardous chemicals in the European market
Reach Regulation
Chemical Standard
European chemical legislation establishes the regulatory framework for registering and evaluating chemical substances manufactured or imported into the single market. This framework, commonly called the reach regulation, places the burden of proof on companies to demonstrate that their chemical products do not harm human health or the environment. The scope of this legislation applies to all chemical substances, including those used in industrial processes and consumer products.
Registry Dossier
Registration dossiers must be submitted to the European Chemicals Agency to register any substance produced or imported in quantities of one tonne or more per year. Importers must gather information on the physicochemical and toxicological properties of their substances. If the required data is missing, the substance cannot be manufactured or imported, a principle known as no data, no market.
Collaborating with other registrants in joint submissions helps distribute the costs of laboratory testing.
Market Restriction
Substances of very high concern are placed on a candidate list, which subjects them to authorization requirements and eventual substitution. This list is updated regularly, forcing manufacturers to track the composition of their raw materials and products. When a chemical is restricted or requires authorization, companies must find safer alternatives or apply for specific exemptions to continue using it.
Downstream users must also comply by implementing the risk management measures specified in the safety data sheets provided by their suppliers. Staying ahead of these regulatory updates is necessary to prevent sudden supply chain disruptions or product bans.