The REACH regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) has been a foundational regulation for over 15 years for all companies that use chemical substances in manufacturing or processing. It covers all actors in the supply chain — from manufacturers to processors, distributors, and downstream users. A central element of the REACH regulation is the SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern) Candidate List, which is regularly updated by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

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New Challenges from PFAS Restrictions

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As part of the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, the EU Commission is now pursuing a revision and tightening of the REACH regulation as the most impactful lever. On January 13, 2023, a proposal to restrict PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) as a group was submitted. This is a restriction proposal that covers all uses of PFAS. The proposed ban was developed under the REACH regulation by authorities from Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. The goal of the ban is to drastically reduce the release of PFAS into the environment.

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On March 22, 2023, this proposal for a ban on the manufacture, use, and placing on the market (including import) was published by ECHA. It is one of the most comprehensive proposals since the REACH regulation came into force in 2007.

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Why REACH Compliance Matters

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The regular expansion of the SVHC list and the planned PFAS restrictions present companies with a continuous need for adaptation. Compliance with REACH requirements not only protects the environment and health but is also an essential factor in maintaining competitiveness in both the European and global markets.

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Steps Toward REACH Compliance and Preparing for Future Restrictions

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Our whitepaper provides a structured guide to implementing the REACH regulation in 5 steps:

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1. Supplier Base Review: Ensure all suppliers meet REACH requirements and identify alternative suppliers that avoid PFAS where necessary.

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2. SVHC Substance Inventory: Continuously monitor your own products and processes for compliance with the current SVHC list.

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3. Documentation and Tracking: Regularly document all relevant data, including SCIP numbers and emissions data.

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4. Risk Management for Future Substance Restrictions: Build a preventive system for early identification and assessment of newly regulated substances.

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5. Digital Supplier Management: Optimize the compliance process through digital tools that enable efficient monitoring and automated supplier surveys.

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How Tacto Supports REACH Compliance

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With Tacto, companies can efficiently monitor their supply chain and meet all REACH regulation requirements as well as future tightening such as the PFAS ban. The platform provides a centralized solution for capturing and monitoring all chemical-related compliance data and supports companies with automated supplier surveys and systematic action plans.

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The REACH regulation and upcoming PFAS restrictions present manufacturers with significant challenges. A solid REACH compliance strategy and proactive risk management are critical to efficiently meeting requirements and securing long-term market position. Download our whitepaper "REACH Regulation: Implementation and Preparing for Stricter Rules Like PFAS" for detailed insights and practical implementation guidance.

The REACH regulation is based on a SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern) Candidate List, which is updated semi-annually by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). ECHA is responsible for chemical regulation in the EU and thus also for the REACH regulation.