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An updated REACH Regulations booklet is now available from AnchorCert Analytical outlining all the latest information on the REACH Regulation. This includes the latest amends relating to Chromium VI and Textiles.

This booklet is ideal for manufacturers, suppliers, importers and retailers. It summarises the regulations items must comply with to be sold in the EU marketplace.

What is REACH?

REACH is a European Union Regulation concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of CHemicals. It came into force on 1st June 2007 and replaced a number of European Directives and Regulations with one single system.

The REACH regulation has an impact on the chemicals used by manufacturers and importers in all industry sectors, especially any substances used that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or reproductive toxins or are very persistent in the environment. A list of “Substances of Very High Concern” has been published and the use of any such materials at more than 0.1% must be notified to the authorities.

What are the implications of REACH Regulations?

The implications of REACH are far ranging and, in general require that manufacturers have a detailed knowledge of the materials used in their products, their specifications and the quantities used.

The part of the regulation which is of particular relevance to importers and retailers in the jewellery, watch, clothing, textiles and fashion accessories industry is article 67 which states:

'A substance on its own, in a mixture in an article, for which Annex XVII contains a restriction shall not be manufactured, placed on the market or used unless it complies with the conditions of that restriction.'

The relevant substances restricted by Article 67 are Nickel, Lead, Cadmium, Azo-dyes, Chromium VI, Formaldehyde, NP, NPEO & AP, APEOs, Organotin Compounds, Pentachlorophenol and Phthalates to name just a few.

What tests do I need to do to ensure my item is REACH compliant?

Different components may require testing for different elements. For example, for a piece of jewellery which consists of leathers, metals, plastics and paints then Nickel, Lead, Cadmium, Azo-Dyes and Chromium VI regulations will all apply.

Testing at AnchorCert Analytical

AnchorCert Analytical is an accredited testing house which offers testing to confirm compliance for all of the regulations discussed above and in the REACH Regulations booklet. The majority of these tests can be conducted in just 4 -5 working days.

To request a REACH Regulations booklet or for more information on the testing offered by AnchorCert Analytical, please e-mail testing@theassayoffice.co.uk or telephone 0121 262 1017.

For more information about the European Union Regulation, please visit www.echa.europa.eu.