European chemicals strategy (REACH)


The Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals Regulations (REACH) are designed to ensure chemicals are properly tested before going onto the market. They started coming into force in 2007 and are being phased in over 11 years. The HSE is advising companies that: “Based on the timescale for negotiating the UK’s exit from the EU it is our understanding that those UK-based companies affected still have the legal obligation to register their substances by the 2018 deadline.”


REACH places the burden of proof on employers to demonstrate that a chemical can be used safely. Everyone in the supply chain will have to ensure the safety of the chemical substances they handle and will have better information to do this.



Although REACH is primarily aimed at protecting the environment and consumers, it has implications for workplace safety. Unions broadly welcomed REACH, although they have concerns about its limitations and its implications for health and safety legislation.



TUC guidance reminds safety reps to make sure employers are meeting their legal duties on workplace chemicals under REACH. The guidance advises safety reps in firms using chemicals to check with their employer whether:



• any classifications need changing under the new rules;



• chemicals are being labelled correctly in line with the rules;



• all uses are covered by updated safety data sheets; and



• all necessary risk assessment measures have been implemented.