Latest REACH Compliance Testing Updates

Staying updated on the latest developments in REACH compliance testing is crucial for businesses involved in the manufacturing and distribution of chemical substances. Recent regulatory changes have introduced new requirements and deadlines that companies must adhere to in order to remain compliant.

As of January 26, 2025, Ukraine’s Technical Regulation on Chemical Safety, commonly referred to as “Ukraine REACH,” has come into effect. This regulation mandates that companies pre-register their chemical substances within a one-year window, ending on January 26, 2026. Businesses operating in or exporting to Ukraine should prepare for this pre-registration process, especially for substances requiring high-tonnage registration.

In the European Union, the REACH regulation is undergoing significant revisions aimed at enhancing chemical safety and environmental protection. Key changes include the implementation of grouped assessment protocols for chemical families, refined persistence criteria, and specific toxicity thresholds. Additionally, there are detailed restrictions and analytical methods being established for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These revisions necessitate that companies update their risk assessment methodologies and ensure compliance with the new technical specifications.

Furthermore, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has recently updated the Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs), adding five new substances. This brings the total number of SVHCs to 247. Companies are required to communicate the presence of these substances within their supply chains and may need to update their notifications to the SCIP database accordingly.

To navigate these evolving regulations, businesses are advised to conduct thorough reviews of their chemical inventories, update safety data sheets, and engage with compliance experts to ensure adherence to the latest REACH requirements. Proactive compliance not only mitigates legal risks but also demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and public health.