The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023
Overview
The REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations play a crucial role in ensuring the safe use of chemicals in the United Kingdom. The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 extend the current legislative deadlines and provide additional time for registrants to submit information to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under UK REACH. These amendments also impact downstream users and distributors, allowing them to continue importing chemicals from the European Union (EU) without full registration. In this article, we will delve into the key requirements of the amended regulations, their effects on businesses, and the types of businesses that may be affected.
The primary purpose of the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 is to extend the deadlines for information submission and introduce a new transitional registration model. The key requirements include:
- Extended Deadlines: The regulations extend the timelines for registrants to submit information to the HSE under UK REACH. The original submission deadlines have been extended by three years, with new deadlines set for October 2026, October 2028, and October 2030. These deadlines depend on the type and quantity of substances being registered.
- Transitional Imports: Downstream users and distributors who were importing chemicals from the EU before the end of the EU Exit Implementation Period can continue to import without full registration. The protected transitional import period has been extended to align with the extended data submission deadlines. This provision allows businesses to maintain continuity in their import activities during the transition period.
- Compliance Checks: The regulations also amend the compliance check dates for the HSE. The HSE is required to carry out compliance checks on submitted information to ensure regulatory adherence. The compliance check deadlines have been adjusted to correspond with the extended data submission deadlines, ensuring a harmonised regulatory process.
The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 were made on the 28th of June 2023 and came into force on the 19th of July 2023.
The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 apply to the following countries:
- United Kingdom;
- England;
- Scotland;
- Wales; and
- Northern Ireland.
Do the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 affect my business?
The REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 have significant implications for businesses operating in the UK chemical industry. Some of the effects include:
- Extended Preparation Time: The extended deadlines for information submission provide businesses with additional time to gather and prepare the necessary data for compliance. This allows them to ensure accuracy and completeness in their submissions without incurring unnecessary costs.
- Transitional Registration Model: The introduction of a new transitional registration model aims to reduce the replication of hazard information and improve understanding of chemical uses and exposures in Great Britain. This alternative approach may require businesses to adapt their registration processes and align with the new model.
- Cost Considerations: The amended regulations address industry concerns about the costs associated with information gathering and compliance. By extending the deadlines and developing a new registration model, the government aims to minimise the financial burden on businesses while ensuring the safe use of chemicals.
It is important for businesses to stay informed about the specific requirements and deadlines outlined in the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023. By complying with these regulations, businesses can maintain the safe use of chemicals, protect human health and the environment, and contribute to a well-regulated chemical industry in the UK.
It is also important to note that these amendments provide businesses with extended timelines, facilitate the development of a new registration model, and aim to reduce costs while ensuring the safe use of chemicals. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, businesses can navigate the evolving landscape of chemical safety and contribute to a sustainable and responsible industry.
Do I need the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 in my ISO Compliance Register?
Various types of businesses may be affected by the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023, including:
- Chemical Manufacturers and Importers: Companies involved in manufacturing or importing chemical substances need to comply with the extended information submission deadlines. They must ensure the safe use of chemicals, assess potential hazards, and provide the required documentation to the HSE.
- Downstream Users and Distributors: Businesses that rely on imported chemicals from the EU will benefit from the extended transitional import period. This allows them to continue importing chemicals without the immediate need for full registration, providing continuity in their operations during the transition period.
- Industry Associations and Regulatory Bodies: Organisations involved in overseeing compliance with REACH regulations, such as industry associations and regulatory bodies, play a crucial role in providing guidance, disseminating information, and ensuring that businesses understand and meet their obligations under the amended regulations.
If your business is included in any of the above categories you will need to include the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 in your ISO Compliance Register.
Legislation related to the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023
Legislation related to the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 include:
- The REACH Enforcement Regulations 2008
- Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)
- Chemicals Act 2008
- The Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) Regulations 2009
More information
Visit the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023 article on the legislation.gov.uk website.
Create an account in the ISO Compliance Register App and add this article (in which you will find the REACH (Amendment) Regulations 2023) to your Register.
