Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)

DEFINITION:  EU legislation which aims to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals. In principle, REACH applies to all chemical substances; not only those used in industrial processes, but also in people’s day-to-day lives – for example, in cleaning products and paints, as well as in articles such as clothes, furniture and electrical appliances. Therefore, the regulation has an impact on most manufacturing firms across the UK.

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