REACH - Registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals

Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (EU REACH) is a European Union regulation. EU REACH continues to apply in Northern Ireland. 

EU REACH can apply if you are manufacturing chemicals or purchasing chemicals from Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) or outside of the EU to distribute, sell or use in Northern Ireland and/or the EU.

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has more information about EU REACH and your role and responsibilities.

Information on chemicals under EU REACH 

You should regularly check the following annexes and lists to stay informed on chemicals relevant to you. Some chemicals may be restricted for use or can only be used or placed on the market if an authorisation is granted.  

Authorisations

• Annex XV - Registry of substances of very high concern (SVHC) intentions until outcome
• Candidate List of SVHC for Authorisation
• Annex XIV - Authorisation List

Restrictions

• Registry of restriction intentions until outcome
• Annex XVII - Substances restricted under REACH

EU REACH Calls for Evidence and Consultations 

ECHA organises consultations to get feedback and gather scientific information for the regulatory processes. You can contribute to the following:

Types of consultations  

• Substances of very high concern identification
• Draft recommendation for inclusion in the Authorisation List and consultation
• Applications for authorisation
• Submitted restrictions under consideration
• Current calls for comments and evidence

Northern Ireland Chemical Stakeholder Forum

Planning has started on setting up a Northern Ireland Chemicals Stakeholder Forum. If you would be interested in participating in the forum, please register your interest by emailing chemicals.team@economy-ni.gov.uk.

Further support for EU REACH

In the first instance, if you have any queries relating to REACH, you can contact the REACH Helpdesk by email at ukreach.clp@hse.gov.uk.

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has a role in REACH enforcement. If you have any queries on compliance, send an email to chemicals@hseni.gov.uk.

ECHA also provides a directory of contact points for specific queries on chemical regulations. 

If you need further assistance or have any queries on the guidance on this page, email the Department for the Economy Chemicals Team at chemicals.team@economy-ni.gov.uk.