Players

The vast majority of the REACH requirements apply directly to manufacturers and importers of substances. They will supply data on the properties of their chemicals, develop chemical safety assessments and implement risk management measures.

Downstream users will be supplied with safety information about the chemicals they purchase and should follow them when handling the chemicals. They will also need to make sure that their customers (e.g. other industries and consumers) have all the information necessary to use their products safely. When a chemical is used in a way not covered by the original registration, the new uses or risk reduction measures will have to be reported to the Agency if the volume is higher than 1 tonne. Distributors must also ensure safety information is provided with the substances they sell.

The competent authorities in the Member States will be responsible for performing evaluations. They can initiate the procedure for restrictions and will enforce the new system within their territory. They will provide much of the expertise to ensure that the Agency is able to operate.

The Agency, to be funded, will act as the central point in the REACH system. It will run the databases necessary to operate the system and co-ordinate the evaluation procedures. It will take any decisions to require further information from industry. The Agency will provide advice to the Commission on priorities regarding treatment of substances and on issues linked to authorisation. It will also run a number of technical committees advising, and drafting opinions for, the Commission.

The Commission will oversee the work of the Agency, and will decide on proposals following evaluation if Member States fail to reach an agreement. It will also decide on authorisations and restrictions of uses of specific substances following review of relevant risk assessment and socio-economic analyses.