The European Union REACH regulation was incorporated into British law on January 1, 2021. This regulation is now in force and is called the UK REACH. UK REACH maintains the objectives and principles of EU REACH, and the regulations operate independently of each other.

What is UK REACH

The European Union REACH regulation was incorporated into English law on January 1, 2021. This regulation has now been implemented and is called UK REACH (UKREACH). This was triggered by the EU (Exit) Act 2018. The EU legislation has been copied in the UK and necessary modifications have been made to make it operational in the domestic environment. The key principles of the EU REACH regulation have been retained. UK REACH upholds the goals and principles of EU REACH.

UK REACH and EU REACH regulations operate independently of each other. Companies that supply and procure substances, mixtures or articles to the EU/EEA/Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom (England, Scotland and Wales) need to ensure that they comply with their obligations under both legislation.

According to the Northern Ireland Protocol, EU REACH regulations continue to apply to Northern Ireland, while UK REACH provides a regulatory framework for UK chemicals.

What are the applicable product ranges of REACH

The scope of REACH regulation is broad. It covers almost all non food, feed and drug commercial products.

Including chemicals, alloys, plastics, semi-finished products, accessories, toys, furniture, cosmetics, stationery, pigments, paints, glues and cleaners, textiles and clothing, footwear products, leather products and accessories, electronic and electrical products and other products and other household goods, leisure and sports supplies.

What are the differences between the EU REACH and the UK REACH

1. The UK REACH SVHC and Annex 17 are generally updated more slowly than the EU;

2. The UK SVHC has only been updated to the 23rd batch of EU, and the EU has been updated to the 27th batch;

3. The biggest difference between the UK Annex 17 and the EU is Article 68. The UK still retains the requirements of PFOA, while the EU has replaced PFOA with PFCA (C9-C14).