REACH
From June 2007, REACH impacted all industrial and business sectors in Ireland. Initially the focus on REACH was those who manufacture and import chemicals and substances to ensure they were registered and evaluated. REACH is now at the Authorisation stage and with that comes a number of important deadlines.
Some substances classified as having particular toxic properties will have to be authorised for use.
The current issue for business created by this regulation is the impact that the Authorisation process may have on the supply chain for products. If Authorisation for use of a substance required for a product or component is not granted by a set deadline, then that substance cannot be used for that process.
This presents a major issue for all employers as it will impact all businesses in the supply chain of components or products that contain these substances. Even if the identified substance is used in small quantities as part of a specific process to manufacture a component that is then purchased and assembled into a larger product, if that substance has not been registered for that use and if there is no alternative substance, then employers will no longer be able to buy that component.
If that component is business critical, then this presents a significant business continuity issue.
The Ibec OHS service has published a short guide help employers evaluate the extent that the Authorisation process may affect their business and to take steps to ensure that they secure their supply chain and operations as Authorisation is rolled out.
For more detailed information on REACH you can contact the HSA helpdesk by calling 1890 289 389 or by emailing chemicals@hsa.ie,
European Chemicals Agency
- REACH - Securing Your Supply Chain.pdf - 707 Kbytes