Storing chemicals

The REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of Chemicals) requirements affect businesses that manufacture, import, distribute, sell, store or use chemical substances, preparations or articles.

REACH when using chemicals

REACH will probably not affect you if you use common chemical products for their intended purposes, for example paints, glues, cleaning materials and solvents.

If you use a chemical in a way that may not be expected, you should contact your supplier. They will need to consider registering the chemical's use. If you do not want your supplier to know what you are using a chemical for (for example if you are using it in a new or innovative way) you must let the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) know about the use.

It is a good idea to produce an inventory of all the chemicals you use and store on your site, and the quantities that you have.

REACH and information about chemicals

REACH makes sure that chemical users receive information about how to store, use and dispose of chemicals.

You may receive a safety data sheet (SDS) with some of the chemicals you use. If you receive a chemical without an SDS, contact your supplier to find out whether or not they have to provide one.

You should follow the instructions on the SDS to ensure you use your chemicals safely.

REACH and registering chemicals

If you manufacture chemicals or import chemicals from outside the European Union, you must register them with the ECHA. You will also need to provide information about how to use, store and handle chemicals safely - see registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH).