DEPARTMENT FOR
ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS News Release (News Release ref
:163/08) issued by The Government News Network on 2 June 2008
New EU rules for
controlling chemicals will increase confidence in their safe use -
but manufacturers, importers and users of chemicals need to get
involved now.
People who manufacture in or import chemicals from outside Europe
in quantities over one tonne are required to register these
chemicals as part of the registration, evaluation, authorisation
and restriction of chemicals programme (REACH). Under REACH,
chemicals will be fully evaluated and controlled to manage risks
to people and the environment.
Between 1 June and 1 December 2008, businesses can ease the REACH
registration process by pre-registering the chemicals they
manufacture or import with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in
Helsinki. Failure to do this may have significant implications
because businesses will have to stop manufacturing or importing
until they register substances.
Environment Minister Phil Woolas said 'It is important you
find out now if these new rules will affect your business.
'Most businesses use chemicals and many rely on them without
realising it - such as paints, metals, insulation or cleaning materials.
'If you think you need to register chemicals, take advantage
of the opportunity to pre-register before 1 December year. It
makes good business sense.'
Notes for Editors
1. The EU Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction
of Chemicals Regulation, known as REACH, became law across the EU
on 1 June 2007. Because it is an EU Regulation, it applies
directly in each Member State (including the UK). The European
Chemicals Agency in Helsinki (ECHA) is managing the implementation
of REACH across the European Union, see: http://echa.europa.eu/home_en.asp
2. In the UK, the REACH Competent Authority (hosted by the Health
and Safety Executive) is responsible for overseeing the operation
of REACH. For comprehensive information on REACH, see: http://www.hse.gov.uk/reach/
3. The first step is for people to pre-register substances
already being manufactured in, or supplied from outside the EU in
quantities over one tonne. The pre-registration period is between
1 June and 1 December 2008.
4. Pre-registering during this time means people can take
advantage of a phased registration process at a later date. Those
who don't pre-register will have to fully register their
chemicals straight after 1 December, or chemicals will be
withdrawn from the market until they are fully registered.
5. Pre-registration means supplying a few pieces of basic
information to the Chemicals Agency in Helsinki. Registration
requires putting together a comprehensive dossier of data about
the substance.
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