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On November 7, 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced an update to the REACH Candidate List under the REACH Regulation (EC) 1907/2006. The addition of a new Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) highlights the EU’s commitment to ensuring chemical safety and protecting human health and the environment.
What Is the REACH Candidate List?
The REACH Candidate List is a critical tool within the REACH Regulation, identifying substances that pose significant risks. These substances, designated as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC), are closely monitored due to their hazardous properties, such as being:
- Carcinogenic
- Mutagenic
- Toxic to Reproduction (CMR)
- Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic (PBT)
Once a substance is added to the REACH Candidate List, businesses using or supplying it face additional obligations to ensure safe usage and explore alternatives.
What the Update Means
The addition of a new substance imposes specific responsibilities for businesses using or distributing it. Companies must:
- Report its presence in articles if above a concentration of 0.1% by weight.
- Communicate its use and risks throughout the supply chain.
- Submit notifications to the SCIP database for articles containing the SVHC.
For detailed information, access the official ECHA Candidate List.
Implications for Businesses
The inclusion of a new substance in the REACH Candidate List introduces additional compliance responsibilities for manufacturers, importers, and downstream users. Companies must ensure they:
- Update Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Ensure all products containing the SVHC include accurate hazard information.
- Notify ECHA: If the SVHC is present in articles exceeding the 0.1% threshold, notification to ECHA is mandatory.
- Inform Customers and Supply Chains: Provide clear information about safe use and potential risks.
- Assess Safer Alternatives: Begin exploring substitutes to phase out the use of listed SVHCs where possible.
Steps to Achieve Compliance with the REACH Candidate List
To meet the requirements of the Candidate List, businesses should:
- Identify Affected Products: Review product portfolios to determine whether the new SVHC is present.
- Collaborate with Suppliers: Obtain detailed material composition data and communicate requirements for compliance.
- Fulfill SCIP Database Obligations: Submit required data to the database for all products containing the SVHC.
- Prepare Internal Processes: Ensure your compliance team is informed about the new requirements and is ready to act.
Conclusion
The addition of a new substance to the REACH Candidate List underscores the importance of staying updated with EU chemical regulations. Proactive compliance helps businesses maintain market access while fostering safer practices. Contact our team for expert support in navigating REACH requirements and ensuring your products meet the latest standards.