|
|
REACH - does it affect you?
The new Regulation aims to improve the protection of human health and the environment while maintaining competitiveness, and enhancing the innovative capability of the EU chemicals industry. REACH will furthermore give greater responsibility to industry to manage the risks from chemicals and to provide safety information that will be passed down the supply chain.
The HSE has provided a detailed website to allow businesses to evaluate their duties. Further questions can be answered at their FAQ webpage
REACH is a radical step forward in the EU chemicals management. The onus will move from the authorities to industry. In addition, REACH will allow the further evaluation of substances where there are grounds for concern and foresees an authorisation system for the use of substances of very high concern. This applies to substances that cause cancer, infertility, genetic mutations or birth defects, and to those which are persistent and accumulate in the environment. The Authorisation system will require companies to switch progressively to safer alternatives where a suitable alternative exists. All applications for an authorisation need to include an analysis of alternatives and a substitution plan where a suitable alternative exists. Current use restrictions will remain under REACH system.
Further reading on the requirements of REACH can be found at:
TUC Briefing for Safety Representatives
Defra website
EU website
European Chemicals Agency
European Chemicals Bureau
Preparing for REACH
NetRegs REACH guidance
Businesses also need to comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) these require the employer to assess the use of Chemicals and Substances they use and where required implement the required control measures.
Absolute Health and Safety Solutions Ltd have wide experience working with businesses using chemicals and substances. For further information or a review of your requirements please contact our offices on 01344 752002 or info@absolutehss.co.uk
|
|
