REACH - Obligations for producers of recycled aggregates

The Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) Regulations came into force throughout Europe in June 2007. They introduce a system to gather hazard information, assess risks, classify, label and restrict the marketing and use of individual chemicals and mixtures produced or imported within the EU.

The REACH Regulations apply to recycled aggregates sold as recovered products. Producers need to act BEFORE 1 December 2008. This page explains what must be done.

The UK REACH Competent Authority (UK REACH CA) is the Health and Safety Executive, which has set up a dedicated helpdesk (UKREACHCA@hse.gsi.gov.uk or 0845 408 9575) for general enquiries and information on the implications of REACH.  Further information on REACH and about how it is implemented in the UK is also available from DEFRA.

The most immediate requirement of REACH is that all businesses producing any chemical substance above 1 tonne per annum must register it with the European Chemical Agency (ECHA). The registration is phased over 11 years, with higher risks and higher quantities substances requiring registration first. However, pre-registration of certain substances before 1 December 2008 is required to take advantage of a delayed registration, so that more time is available to prepare the necessary documents. 

Waste, as defined within the Waste Framework Directive, is explicitly excluded from REACH by not being classified as a substance, preparation, or article (Article 2(2) of the REACH Regulation). You don't need to register with REACH if you are simply producing waste. However, if you are reprocessing waste and recovering it, REACH applies from the point where waste ceases to be waste and it is placed on the market.

Producers of recycled aggregates from waste are required to register their products and are strongly advised to pre-register before 1 December 2008.  Failure to do so will result in having to submit immediately a full, detailed registration or not being allowed to continue their business.

Pre-registration is free and it is explained within this UK REACH CA webpage. However, please first read how WRAP can help you.

WRAP is working with the UK REACH CA to clarify the (pre-)registration requirements for different recycled aggregates.

Please consult the (Pre-)Registration of Recycled Aggregates page regularly for the latest available guidance.