How will REACH work?
Gathering of physicochemical, toxicological and eco-toxicological data
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. Manufacturers and importers have to submit this information to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in Helsinki.
Essential parts of the registration dossier are:
• a Technical Dossier (for substances > 1 ton/y)
• a Chemical Safety Report (for substances > 10 ton/y)
The agency may then check that the registration dossier complies with the REACH Regulation and must evaluate testing proposals to ensure that the assessment of the chemical substances will not result in unnecessary animal testing. Where appropriate, authorities may select substances for an in-depth evaluation. Substances of very high concern shall not be used and have to be replaced by safer alternatives unless they get an authorisation for certain uses. Substances of very high concern are defined as carcinogenic, mutagenic or reproductive toxicants; substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic; or substances of equivalent concern. In addition the authorities may impose restrictions on the manufacture, use or marketing of substances causing an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment.