New REACH Website Simplifies Navigation of EU Chemical Regulation

Hunton & Williams and Penman Consulting collaborate to offer single source of information on the main EU chemical regulation

December 7, 2011

BRUSSELS — December 7, 2011 — Hunton & Williams and Penman Consulting today announced the launch of the REACH Product Stewardship Forum (www.reachpsforum.eu, retired), a web site designed to help companies and stakeholders navigate the maze of available processes, regulations and guidelines for the European Union's REACH (Registration, Evaluation Authorization and restriction of Chemicals) Regulation and integrate REACH into a global compliance program.

Designed by legal and consulting professionals involved in the development of the regulation since its inception, the website offers a straightforward approach to understanding REACH, specifically:

  • a comprehensive calendar of milestones
  • a user-friendly checklist on how to prepare for registration
  • an up-to-date overview of legal proceedings, such as cases involving the Candidate List, classification and labeling
  • an accessible snapshot of compliance requirements and bodies involved

"Our intent is to make understanding REACH as simple as possible by providing a concise overview of the regulations," said Lucas Bergkamp, who heads the European regulatory practice of Hunton & Williams. "This portal is a key resource ahead of the 2013 Registration deadline, comprising critical advice for a smooth submission of dossiers."

Adopted by the EU in 2006, the REACH regulation is one of the most complex chemical regulations in the world, addressing over 30,000 substances. It impacts the entire chemical supply chain ranging from producers to importers and suppliers and affects virtually every business sector, from agriculture, automotive and construction, to cosmetics, electronics, retail and more.

REACH requires the registration of chemicals based on the principle "no data, no market," regulates communication within the supply chain, and imposes procedures for the authorization of the use of certain chemicals and for restrictions on their manufacturing and use. These programs have inspired similar regulatory approaches in other parts of the world.

Mike Penman, founder of Penman Consulting, added: "The Forum will be a valuable tool for any company that wants to ensure business differentiation, continuance and future growth. It not only helps define the steps toward compliance, but it enables companies to actively steward their products and processes."