Chemical reaction

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Strict EU regulations on chemicals and substances means all companies will need to be aware of exactly what they are using, says Phil Woolas

The registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (

) programme began its pre-registration period on 1 June, meaning companies will need to research the substances they use, how they use them and who they rely on if they want to keep using them in the future.

Under REACH, chemicals manufactured or imported into the EU in quantities of more than one tonne must be registered with the

(ECHA) in Helsinki. This process began with the pre-registration period, which runs until 1 December this year.

But REACH will not only affect big businesses dealing with large quantities of chemical products. If companies use chemicals to keep their machinery operating and their premises clean, import products such as cars or batteries or receive substances containing chemicals through a supplier and use them in an unusual way, they may need to take some action under the new rules.

It makes good business sense to get on board with REACH as soon as possible. Find out about the new rules and how they might affect your business. There are resources to help, such as the REACH Competent Authority website and helpdesk.*

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