Getting started with chemicals for companies

Most companies use chemicals in one way or another. They are essential for our way of life and our economy, but they have to be managed safely so as to protect human health and the environment.

Equal standards for the manufacturing, supply and safe use of chemicals apply across the entire European Economic Area (EEA), which includes the EU Member States, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. These standards apply to companies regardless of their position in the supply chain and the products they manufacture, import, export, supply or use.

This means that the legislation most likely applies to your business in some way.

What you have to do depends on the type of products you place on the market or use.

You will have to comply with additional requirements if you place hazardous products on the market.

If this is new to you, start here.

Relevant basic guidances:

• Practical information explaining company roles and requirements under the REACH, CLP and BPR regulation
• Guidance for SME advisers in relation to consultancy on REACH, CLP and the BPR