Information in the Supply Chain

A good flow of information up and down the supply chain is a key feature of REACH. Users of chemicals need to know and understand the hazards involved in using chemicals and how to control the risks. Manufacturers and importers of chemicals must supply this information on the hazards and risks to downstream users and distributors. However, in order for suppliers to be able to assess these risks they need information from the users about how they are used. REACH provides this framework in which information can be passed up and down the supply chain.

The two main instruments used to communicate the hazards of chemicals are labels and safety data sheets. Provisions for labels are regulated by Classification, Packaging and Labelling (CLP) regulations. While the label is the primary tool for communication of hazard information to the consumer, the safety data sheet provides more detailed information on hazards and control measures for the worker. Safety Data Sheets should accompany chemicals through the supply chain, providing information to users in order to ensure that the chemicals are safely managed.

Further details on classification and labelling can be found in the CLP section of this website, while further information on the safety data sheet can be found in the safety data sheet section

Workers access to information

All workers and their representatives must have access to the information given in safety data sheets for the chemicals that they use or have the potential to be exposed to while at work. Where safety data sheets are not required but substances either on their own or in mixtures are subject to authorisation or restriction, then this information must be made available to all workers and their representatives.

Duty to keep information

Every manufacturer, importer, downstream user or distributor has a duty to gather and keep all information relevant to their obligations under REACH for a period of at least 10 years after they last manufactured, imported, supplied or used the substance. They are obliged to make this information available upon request and without delay to any Competent Authority of the Member State in which they are established, or to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).