REACH

REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) is a regulation enacted by the European Union in 2007, pertaining to chemicals. Its primary objective is to safeguard human health and the environment through the registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals. REACH regulation applies to all companies that produce or sell chemicals on the European market, regardless of whether these chemicals are used individually or as part of other products.

The main requirements of the REACH regulation include:

1. Registration: Manufacturers or importers need to register their chemicals with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), providing information about the chemical, including its uses, hazards, and recommended safety precautions.

2. Evaluation: ECHA evaluates registered chemicals to ensure their uses comply with the requirements of the REACH regulation and takes necessary measures to reduce risks to human health and the environment.

3. Authorization: Particularly hazardous chemicals may require authorization before they can be sold or used on the EU market. These chemicals include substances that pose significant risks to human health or the environment.

4. Restriction: REACH regulation can restrict or prohibit the use of certain chemicals or their specific uses on the EU market.

In the textile industry, REACH regulation typically applies to the use of dyes, auxiliaries, coatings, water repellents, and other chemicals, as well as potentially harmful substances that may remain in textiles. Compliance with REACH regulation helps ensure the safety of textiles and reduces adverse impacts on human health and the environment.