REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) is the European Union’s comprehensive chemical regulatory framework, adopted in 2006 and enforced by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). REACH places the responsibility for demonstrating chemical safety on industry — manufacturers, importers, and downstream users — rather than regulatory authorities.

Registration Requirements

Under REACH, any company manufacturing or importing a chemical substance in quantities of 1 tonne per year or more must register it with ECHA. Registration requires compiling a chemical safety assessment (CSA) and technical dossier that documents the substance’s properties, hazards, and safe use conditions. The key principle is “No data, no market” — chemicals cannot be placed on the EU market without registration.

Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs)

REACH identifies Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) — chemicals that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction (CMR), persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT), very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB), or have other serious and irreversible effects. SVHCs are listed on the ECHA Candidate List of Authorisation, and suppliers must communicate information about SVHCs to downstream users.

Authorisation and Restriction

Certain SVHCs require authorisation before they can be used, meaning companies must apply to ECHA and demonstrate that risks are adequately controlled or that socioeconomic benefits outweigh risks. REACH restriction provisions can prohibit or limit the use of specific substances across the EU when they pose unacceptable risks.

Why REACH Compliance Matters

REACH compliance is critical for any company doing business in the EU chemical supply chain. Non-compliance can result in market exclusion, legal penalties, and reputational damage. Even non-EU companies that export chemicals or products containing chemicals to the EU must ensure their EU-based importers have fulfilled REACH obligations. REACH has also influenced chemical regulations worldwide, with many countries developing similar frameworks.

Working safely with chemicals requires knowledge, preparation, and consistent practice. Whether you are new to laboratory work or an experienced researcher, these five essential chemical safety practices provide a solid foundation for protecting yourself, your colleagues, and the environment.

1. Read the SDS Before You Work With Any Chemical

The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is your primary reference for chemical hazard information. Before working with any unfamiliar chemical — or even one you have used before in a different context — review the relevant sections: hazard identification (Section 2), exposure controls and PPE (Section 8), first aid measures (Section 4), and disposal considerations (Section 13). Make sure SDS are readily accessible in your work area.

2. Select and Use Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment

PPE selection must be based on the specific hazards of the chemicals you are using. Nitrile gloves appropriate for one chemical may be inadequate for another. Chemical splash goggles, face shields, lab coats, and respiratory protection must be matched to the hazard. Remember that PPE is the last line of defense — it supplements but does not replace engineering controls and good laboratory practice. Always inspect PPE before use and replace damaged or contaminated equipment.

3. Store Chemicals Properly and Segregate Incompatibles

Chemical storage is a frequent source of laboratory hazards. Chemicals must be stored according to their compatibility — acids and bases must be segregated, oxidizers kept away from flammables, and incompatible materials stored separately to prevent dangerous reactions in case of leaks or spills. Flammable solvents require approved flammable storage cabinets. All containers must be clearly labeled with the chemical name, hazard information, and date received/opened.

4. Use Engineering Controls — Especially Fume Hoods

Laboratory fume hoods are critical engineering controls that protect workers from inhalation of chemical vapors, gases, and aerosols. Always work inside a fume hood when handling volatile or toxic chemicals, and keep the sash at or below the working height. Regularly check fume hood function with a simple tissue test or schedule professional face velocity measurements. Biological safety cabinets, gloveboxes, and local exhaust ventilation serve similar protective functions for specialized applications.

5. Know Emergency Procedures and Location of Safety Equipment

Every laboratory worker must know where emergency eyewash stations, safety showers, fire extinguishers, spill kits, and first aid supplies are located — and how to use them before an emergency occurs. Know your facility’s emergency evacuation procedures and who to contact in case of a chemical spill, fire, or exposure incident. Regular emergency drills and safety training reinforce preparedness and ensure effective response when it matters most.