Reach & RoHS
Safety and compliance of chemical products and electronic devices for the protection of human health and the environment
For companies operating with chemical substances and preparations in the European Union market, maintaining compliance with REACH and RoHS regulations is crucial for business positioning and competitiveness.
Both regulations aim to ensure the safety of chemical products and electrical and electronic equipment, protecting human health and the environment.
REACH Regulation
Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006, known as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), is one of the most comprehensive legislative frameworks on chemical substances.
Considered the most important regulatory structure governing chemical production in Europe, it emerged after multiple EU attempts to systematically regulate the chemical sector—an area with implications for every type of business.
Compliance with this regulation offers companies an opportunity to demonstrate credibility and authority in their respective sectors and markets.
According to Article 1, REACH “aims to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment, including the promotion of alternative methods for hazard assessment, as well as the free circulation of substances on the internal market” to strengthen competitiveness and innovation.
REACH requires the registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemical substances produced, imported, marketed, or used within the EU. This has three key objectives:
- ensuring that all chemical substances and preparations on the market are safe for use;
- reducing the risks associated with chemical use;
- continuously monitoring substances that may have a serious impact on human health and the environment.
Specifically, the regulation lays out strict provisions concerning chemical substances and preparations throughout the entire supply chain. This means manufacturers, importers, and users of such substances are all required to ensure the safe production, marketing, and use of chemicals.
Directive 2011/65/EU: the RoHS Directive
While the REACH Regulation covers chemical substances and preparations, Directive 2011/65/EU, known as RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances), introduces restrictions on the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).
EEE includes “equipment that requires electric currents or electromagnetic fields to function properly, as well as equipment for generating, transferring, and measuring such currents and fields.” These devices are “designed to be used with a voltage not exceeding 1000 volts AC and 1500 volts DC.”
The RoHS Directive is essential for protecting human health and the environment, and promotes the eco-friendly recovery and disposal of EEE waste. Specifically, it has three main goals:
- limiting the use of substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and flame retardants (PBDE and PBB);
- reducing the environmental impact of electrical and electronic devices by restricting hazardous substances;
- promoting sustainable disposal and recovery practices for EEE waste.
Chemical product safety: our services
Our Product Safety Business Unit provides comprehensive and integrated services in the field of chemical substance and compound safety, in full compliance with the mandatory requirements of the REACH Regulation and RoHS Directive.
Specifically, we conduct both analytical testing, accredited by Accredia, and consulting and specialized training activities.
Analytical services
Lifeanalytics offers a complete range of laboratory testing, supported by a structured network of specialized departments and operational labs, allowing us to meet strict quality standards and agreed timelines.
In the field of chemical product safety, we provide Accredia-accredited analytical tests. Accredia is Italy’s sole accreditation body, responsible for certifying laboratories and certification bodies in line with international regulatory requirements.
This enables us to verify the presence of chemical substances in products and help companies assess the regulatory compliance of their materials and items, using rigorous testing methods and the most advanced technologies.
Consulting and training
In addition to our wide range of analytical services, our Product Safety Business Unit offers consulting and training services to ensure proper implementation of the REACH Regulation and RoHS Directive. Our services include:
- Regulatory support: We offer technical-regulatory assistance to guide companies through the compliance process. This includes registration, evaluation, and authorization of chemical substances under REACH, with expert guidance throughout each phase.
- Supplier verification: We conduct strict controls and supplier audits to ensure the quality and safety of materials used, minimizing the risks associated with hazardous substances.
- Specialized training: We organize training sessions to educate and update companies on regulatory requirements and best practices for compliance.
Benefits of REACH and RoHS compliance for companies
Compliance with the REACH Regulation and RoHS Directive offers numerous advantages for companies. Firstly, it ensures legal protection, helping businesses avoid penalties for non-compliance. It also enhances brand reputation, showing a commitment to sustainability and safety that can attract both consumers and commercial partners. Regulatory alignment can also increase competitiveness, open new markets, and foster sustainable innovation.
Moreover, compliance with REACH and RoHS contributes to environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Limiting the use of hazardous substances helps reduce pollution and preserve natural resources. Supporting a circular economy through material recovery reduces waste and promotes sustainable resource management.
The combination of legal compliance, reputational enhancement, and sustainability fosters a positive environment for long-term business growth and success.
Product Safety Business Unit: how we help you ensure product safety
Compliance with REACH and RoHS regulations is essential for companies operating in the European market. Lifeanalytics offers comprehensive, integrated services in analysis, consulting, and training to help companies stay current with evolving legislation. With our support, businesses can successfully navigate the complex regulatory landscape, protecting both human and environmental health—and their market positioning.
Through advanced analytical techniques, cutting-edge technology, and the support of specialized experts, we help companies improve both their production processes and the safety and sustainability of their products.
The Product Safety Business Unit is dedicated to the quality, safety, and sustainability of materials, supporting companies in the food contact materials sector and beyond.
We are a strategic partner for businesses, helping clients implement sustainable development policies through innovative, customized products and high-value solutions. Our core areas of expertise include: food contact materials, packaging sustainability, materials analysis with a focus on REACH and RoHS compliance.
