REACH for O-rings: conformity explained
REACH regulates chemicals in the EU and therefore also the materials used in O-rings. Here is how the regulation works, what it means for seals, and how to identify compliant products.
- REACH is the EU regulation on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals, enacted in 2007.
- The aim is the protection of health and the environment. The responsibility lies with manufacturers and importers.
- Substances of very high concern (SVHC) are listed on the ECHA candidate list.
- For O-rings, REACH restricts certain material constituents, for example certain phthalates used as plasticizers.
- Conformity is a prerequisite for EU market access. Non-compliant products may not be sold.
What is REACH?
REACH is the central regulation of the European Union on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. It was enacted in 2007 and is regarded as a cornerstone of the EU strategy for the protection of health and the environment.
Its main objective is to ensure a high level of protection for human health and the environment against the risks posed by chemicals. REACH places the responsibility for this clearly on industry: manufacturers and importers must manage the risks posed by chemicals and provide safety information about their substances.
The regulation applies not only to substances from industrial processes, but to all chemical substances, including those from everyday life. Over 21,000 chemicals have already been registered under REACH.
The four key components
REACH is based on several key principles, each of which plays its own role in the regulation of chemicals:
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Registration | Collect and submit data on chemical properties and safety. |
| Evaluation | Review of the data and risk assessment. |
| Authorisation | Authorisation for specific uses of hazardous substances. |
| Restriction | Bans or restrictions on certain chemicals. |
Implementation and conformity
In Germany, the implementation of REACH is monitored by the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) and the Federal Environment Agency (UBA). These authorities ensure compliance with the regulations and provide guidance to companies.
For German companies, especially in the chemical and manufacturing sectors, REACH brings noticeable changes. Compliance requires a thorough understanding of the substances used as well as the communication of risk management measures along the entire supply chain.
In practice, conformity follows four steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Identify responsibilities | Determine whether you are a manufacturer, importer or downstream user of chemical substances. |
| Substance registration | Compile and submit data on chemical properties and hazards. |
| Safety assessment | Carry out chemical safety assessments and prepare safety data sheets. |
| Ongoing communication | Communicate with suppliers and customers about substance risks and safety measures. |
Substances of very high concern are becoming increasingly important here, known as substances of very high concern (SVHC). They are listed on the so-called candidate list of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). For closely related substance groups, this also applies in the area of PFAS, whose restriction is currently being intensively discussed.
Four well-known examples
REACH has played a decisive role in the regulation of numerous chemicals that play an important role in industry and everyday life. Four examples illustrate the reach of the regulation:
| Substance | Application | Regulation under REACH |
|---|---|---|
| Bisphenol A (BPA) | Formerly widely used in plastic products such as water bottles and food packaging. | Heavily regulated because of its properties as an endocrine disruptor and possible health risks. Its use in products with food contact has been severely restricted. |
| Phthalates | Plasticizers in plastics, frequently in PVC products. | Certain phthalates were restricted because of their reproductive-toxic properties. This led to an increased use of safer alternatives. |
| PFOS | Used in industrial processes and consumer goods, for example in firefighting foam and water-repellent materials. | Severely restricted because of its persistence in the environment and potentially harmful effects on health. |
| Lead in paints | Formerly commonly used in paints and coatings. | Its use has been severely restricted, especially in products for the consumer market, because of the toxic effect of lead. |
Effects on the O-ring market
REACH has significant effects on a wide range of products, including O-rings. O-rings are used as sealing elements in numerous industries and often consist of various elastomers or plastics whose composition is influenced by REACH.
Effect on materials and compositions. REACH sets restrictions on the use of certain chemicals in products. For O-rings, this means that certain traditionally used substances, for example certain phthalates as plasticizers, may no longer be permitted for use. Manufacturers must ensure that their products comply with the REACH regulations, which often requires the development and use of alternative, less harmful substances.
Transparency and information. Manufacturers of O-rings must provide detailed information about the chemicals used in their products. Safety data sheets increase transparency and enable users to make informed decisions. Compliance requires close cooperation along the entire supply chain.
Effects on product performance. Switching to alternative materials can affect the performance of O-rings. Manufacturers must ensure that the new materials meet the specific requirements of their application areas, without compromising on quality or performance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main objective of REACH?
Must all chemical substances be registered under REACH?
How does REACH affect small and medium-sized enterprises?
What happens if a company does not comply with the REACH regulations?
What does REACH mean for O-rings?
What is the difference between REACH and RoHS?
