European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) Useful Links
The REACH Regulations created the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) which has a central co-ordination and implementation role in the overall process. It is located in Helsinki, Finland and manages the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction processed for chemical substances to ensure consistency across the countries in which REACH applies.
Below is a list of links to ECHA's website which you may find useful.
- Getting started with chemicals – Identify your role in the supply chain (SME's) - ECHA website
- The Navigator tool - ECHA website
DISTRIBUTOR - Do you store and distribute chemicals and/or finished products? - ECHA website
BIOCIDES SUPPLIER OR USER - Do you handle biocides? - ECHA website
ECHA Guidance in a Nutshell
For easier accessibility ECHA has produced shortened versions of the REACH Guidance Documents.
These documents explain in simple terms the main elements of the full guidance with a quick overview and explanation of any implications for businesses.
Topics covered include:
- requirements for substances in articles
- scientific research and development, product and process orientated research and development
- registration
- identification and naming of substances under REACH and CLP
- data-sharing
- compliation of safety data sheets
- downstream users
- chemical safety assessment
Please note they are shortened versions and it is advisable to consult the full REACH guidance if you have any doubt.