§2.1.6 REACH Regulation

The REACH regulation lays down the registration, evaluation, authorization and restriction of chemicals in the EU. Waste is not a substance, article or mixture within the meaning of REACH. Nevertheless, information generated in the framework of REACH may be relevant for waste classification. Box 7: The REACH Regulation Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (‘REACH’) (16) entered into force in 2007. REACH is the general chemicals law at EU level, applying to substances (as such, in mixtures or in articles). The purpose of REACH is to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment, including the promotion of alternative methods for assessment of hazards of substances, as well as the free circulation of substances on the internal market while enhancing competitiveness and innovation. REACH defines and operates a number of processes with the overarching aim of ensuring the safe use of chemicals: — registration of substances (requires the submission of information on the properties and uses of substances, subject to certain conditions, to the European Chemicals Agency ECHA); — improved communication in the supply chain by means of extended Safety Data Sheets (eSDS); — evaluation of substances by public authorities with the aim of providing certainty as regards the proper functioning of the registration process and to further clarify concern regarding certain substances; — restriction of use of substances for which an unacceptable risk has been determined; — authorisation — applicable to certain substances of very high concern (SVHC) which can only be placed on the market and used subject to the granting of a specific and time-limited authorisation, subject to certain conditions. It is important to note that according Article 2(2) of the REACH Regulation waste (as defined by the WFD) is not considered a substance or a mixture or an article under REACH; no direct obligations apply under REACH for producers or holders of waste (although the waste stage has to be considered in the chemical safety report to be presented as part of the registration dossier for substances manufactured or imported in the EU in quantities above 10 t/y). However, information about chemical substances generated and communicated in the framework of REACH, particularly hazard information, and its subsequent use in classification according to CLP, is essential (see Annex 2) for the classification of waste. Note that test methods to be used for the purpose of REACH Regulation are indicated in Regulation (EC) 440/2008 (‘Test Methods Regulation’). Some test methods laid down in this regulation, or adaptations thereof, may be applied in the framework of waste classification.

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Source: EUR-Lex (Cellar) · retrieved 2026-09-07