UA REACH : A key step in Ukraine ' s EU integration
Shisher Kumra of Global Product Compliance explores UA REACH , Ukraine ’ s new chemical regulation , and its role in aligning with EU standards
On its path to becoming an EU Member State , Ukraine has taken a significant step to align its regulatory framework with that of the EU . This journey represents more than a political shift ; it marks a commitment to shared values , including enhanced safety standards , environmental protection and economic cooperation .
In July 2024 , Ukraine adopted the Technical Regulation on the Safety of Chemical Products , known as UA REACH . This created a foundation for safer practices in the chemical industry while opening new doors for trade and economic growth .
UA REACH
UA REACH enforces strict requirements for the registration , classification and safety management of chemical substances in Ukraine . Mirroring the EU REACH Regulation , UA REACH applies to all chemical substances manufactured , imported or sold in quantities exceeding 1 tonne / year .
This regulation requires companies to assess and manage potential risks associated with the production , use and distribution of chemicals , ultimately protecting human health and the environment . By aligning with EU standards , UA REACH not only brings Ukraine ’ s regulatory standards closer to those of its European neighbours but also provides Ukrainian companies with a framework familiar to EU partners , facilitating cross-border trade .
To ensure compliance and effective enforcement , the Ministry of Environmental Protection & Natural Resources of Ukraine has been tasked with overseeing the UA REACH framework . This responsibility includes managing the registration process , ensuring that chemical products meet the prescribed safety standards , and evaluating compliance across the sector .
The ministry also has the authority to impose sanctions on companies that fail to meet regulatory requirements , thereby protecting both public health and the environment from potentially harmful practices .
Key provisions
UA REACH establishes several key compliance measures to ensure the safe handling and distribution of chemicals while aligning Ukrainian practices with EU safety standards . These are :
• Mandatory registration & technical dossier requirements : All chemical substances produced , imported or sold in quantities exceeding 1 tonne / year must be registered with the Ministry of Environmental Protection . Companies are required to submit a detailed technical dossier for each substance , including information on the chemical ’ s properties , intended use and risk management measures . This registration ensures transparency and allows the ministry to monitor and regulate substances to ensure safety
• Chemical Safety Report ( CSR ): Companies that handle chemicals in quantities over 10 tonnes / year must submit a CSR that evaluates the risks to human health and the environment . The report must include hazard assessments , exposure scenarios and safety measures throughout the life cycle of the chemical . This ensures that higher-risk substances undergo appropriate scrutiny and hazard control
• Stricter regulations for hazardous chemicals : Substances that are classified as carcinogenic , mutagenic or reprotoxic ( CMRs ) and those that pose a significant risk to aquatic life are subject to even more stringent registration requirements .
Timeline & deadlines
UA REACH introduces a phased timeline to ensure smooth implementation and compliance across the chemical industry . The deadlines are strategically staggered based on the volume and risk profile of chemical substances , allowing companies sufficient time to adapt their processes and meet the regulatory requirements .
By October 2026 , companies must register chemicals manufactured or imported in quantities of ≥1,000 tonnes / year . Registration is required for chemicals manufactured or imported in quantities between 100 and 1,000 tonnes / year by June 2028 . This phase extends the scope of UA REACH to mid-volume
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