REACH Regulation
What is REACH?
The REACH Regulation is the key law governing how chemicals are registered, evaluated and placed on the market, with major implication for downstream users such as those employing adhesives and sealants. REACH has been in force since 2007 and has so far provided a comprehensive framework for managing the chemical components essential to adhesives and sealants. The Commission President announced in her political guidelines for the next European Commission 2024-2029 the simplification of the REACH Regulation.
Why is it important?
Adhesives and sealants are essential to Europe’s competitiveness. They enable lighter vehicles, energy-efficient buildings, durable infrastructure, reusable packaging and critical technologies such as electronics, medical devices, solar panels and wind turbines.
Regulatory approaches that reduce the availability of substances or rely on hazard-only approaches would disrupt supply chains, raise costs and slow innovation. A balanced, risk-based framework is essential for Europe’s industrial resilience and environmental and health targets.
What are we asking for?
FEICA recommends six improvements to ensure chemicals policy supports safety, innovation and competitiveness:
- No MAF in a simplified REACH: Reject the introduction of a non-scientific Mixture Assessment Factor (MAF)
- No purely hazard-based restrictions: Avoid extending the Generic Risk Approach (GRA) without considering real-world use and exposure
- No new blanket requirements for polymers: New requirements on polymers under REACH will overburden industry without delivering clear safety gains
- A comprehensive and effective regulatory roadmap: Recommend a well-defined roadmap to prevent regulatory overload
- Standardised electronic formats for better data transfer: Mandate electronic communication of safety data sheets (SDSs)
- Proper enforcement to ensure a level playing field: Advocate for harmonised enforcement practices across EU Member States