REACH ANNEX XVII and SVHC: Protecting Human Health and the Environment

Introduction

REACH, or the European Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals, is a regulatory framework that places the responsibility for assessing and managing the risks posed by chemicals from public authorities to industry. This regulation aims to ensure a high level of protection for human health and the environment and enhance competitiveness and innovation.

Responsibilities

REACH requires companies to provide appropriate safety information for their users and to cooperate with each other to enhance communication along the supply chain. Public authorities and companies are encouraged to develop tools to ensure the effective implementation of REACH. Annex XVII of REACH specifies the requirements that companies must comply with regarding the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in products sold in the EU.

Objectives

The main objectives of REACH are to promote alternative test methods, ensure the free circulation of substances on the internal market, and protect human health and the environment. By doing so, REACH enhances the competitiveness and innovation of the EU.

SVHC and Annex XVII

SVHC, or Substances of Very High Concern, are chemicals that are deemed to be hazardous to human health and the environment. These substances are identified based on their properties and potential effects, and companies must comply with the requirements for the substances on the candidate list.

Annex XVII of REACH specifies the requirements that companies must comply with regarding the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in products sold in the EU. It prohibits or restricts the use of hazardous substances based on their properties and effects on human health and the environment.

The difference between SVHC and Annex XVII is that SVHCs are evaluated and placed on a candidate list, while Annex XVII outlines the actual restrictions and prohibitions for the use of hazardous substances in products sold in the EU. Both work together to ensure the safety and protection of individuals and the environment.