Mansfield, Texas, -- Chemguard Specialty Chemicals Senior Manager Bob Gilbert reviewed the requirements for the European Union (EU) Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) at the International Coatings for Plastics Symposium in Lombard, Illinois.  In his presentation, “REACH Implementation by a Small Chemical Manufacturer: Key Aspects and Requirements,” Gilbert discussed the REACH timetable, cost estimates, implementation plan, and opportunities.  

“REACH affects not only Europe but also U.S. firms that manufacture and export chemicals, preparations, and articles to the EU,” Gilbert noted.  “REACH puts the burden of proof on the producer and importer to show that substances are safe before they can be placed on the market,” he added, “although a year after the adoption of the controversial REACH legislation, many U.S. companies still are not prepared to address the requirements for continuing to sell into the EU.”

Gilbert presented the requirements for REACH and described the steps taken by a U.S. chemical manufacturer classified as a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) to meet the preregistration requirements. In particular, Gilbert explained how the manufacturer plans to comply with the registration requirements for fewer than 20 chemical substances.