On 30 November 2008 the pre-registration phase of the EU legislation known as REACH (Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006) officially closed. Under this regulation all eligible substances either manufactured or imported into the EU must be pre-registered with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in order to remain in compliance. This has been completed for all eligible substances that Chesterton produces and/or imports into the EU.
Chesterton has worked closely with its supply chain to identify and quantify all eligible substances manufactured and/or imported into the EU and properly pre-register these substance with ECHA.
As previously communicated, Chesterton International GmbH, Ismaning (Munich) – Germany, is acting as Chesterton’s Only Representative (OR). Therefore, distributors of Chesterton products would be considered downstream users and have no pre-registration or registration obligations under REACH.
The REACH legislation applies to substances manufactured or imported into the EU in annual quantities of over 1 metric ton unless that substance falls under specific classifications for more hazardous chemicals. Depending on the quantity, substances may need to be registered as early as 2010 or not be required to be registered until 2018. With regard to registration, several different factors will influence Chesterton’s decision whether or not to register individual substances and/or partner with other companies to register common substances. This process is on-going and we will maintain open communication with our distributors and endusers to avoid any supply chain disruptions.
Chesterton can confirm that there are currently no plans to reformulate or discontinue any products supplied to the EU due to REACH, and we do not foresee this situation changing in the near future. Any potential changes in our supply plans will be communicated as early as possible and alternative products identified as applicable.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding Chesterton’s compliance with REACH, you should direct them to Ingo Stenner. He has access to a global team working on REACH and will be the conduit for any questions. His contact information is as follows: Ingo Stenner, European TP Technical Services Manager, : +49 172 9409059, Fax: +1 781 481 7608, E-Mail: stennei@chesterton.com.