Understanding REACH Regulation
The REACH directive, which the European Union enforced, aims to safeguard human health and the environment from hazards posed by chemical substances. The regulation requires businesses to recognize and control the risk posed to substances they produce and sell in the EU. The comprehensive regulations include registering and evaluating Authorisations, Registration, and Restriction of Chemicals.

Registration
In REACH, producers and importers must collect information regarding the properties and functions of substances they create or import in amounts greater than one ton annually. These data are required to be registered with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The registration process includes filing to ECHA a dossier on technical aspects as well as, at times, an informational report on the safety of chemicals.

Evaluation
When a substance has been declared registered, it is subject to an evaluation procedure. The ECHA and the states that are members examine the data companies submit for compliance and determine those substances requiring more scrutiny. This process helps assess the risks of the substance and determine if more information is needed.

Authorization
Certain substances classified as highly concerned (SVHC) must undergo an authorization procedure. Businesses must seek the right to continue using the substances to prove that risks are properly managed or that the socioeconomic positives outweigh any risks.

Restriction
The restriction process aims to stop or limit the manufacture, placing in the marketplace, or utilizing substances that pose a risk to human health or the natural environment. It can be as simple as limiting the concentration of a substance or banning specific applications of a substance.