Declaration of Compliance under REACH Regulation: The Necessity of Laboratory Testing

For any business aiming to enter the European Union market, the REACH Regulation is a key compliance requirement. Designed to protect human health and the environment from chemical risks, REACH places clear responsibilities on manufacturers and importers. But how do laboratory services fit into this complex regulatory process?

What Is REACH?

REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) is managed by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Its goal is to ensure safe use of chemicals and reduce environmental and health risks.

Why Is a Declaration of Compliance Required?

Under REACH, each chemical substance placed on the market must be supported by a registration file. The “Declaration of Compliance” is the foundation of this file and must include scientific data proving the safe use of the substance.

Role of Laboratory Testing

Accurate declarations require evidence — and that evidence is gathered through laboratory services such as:

• Chemical composition analysis
• Physical and toxicological testing
• Ecotoxicity and environmental impact assessments
• Stability testing

Products That Require Testing

• Industrial chemicals
• Cleaning agents and cosmetics
• Plastics and rubbers
• Consumer contact materials (e.g., toys, stationery, textiles)

Understand Your Duty, Prove Your Compliance

The REACH Regulation is more than just a legal formality — it’s a commitment to safety. By working with experienced laboratory services, businesses can confidently meet compliance obligations, ensure product acceptance in EU markets, and protect their brand reputation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who needs to comply with REACH?

All companies exporting chemical-containing products to the EU must comply.

2. When should testing be conducted?

Before market placement and with every formula change.

3. Are all tests mandatory?

Depending on the substance and use case, chemical and toxicological tests are typically required.

Things to Consider

• Always use labs with REACH expertise
• Prepare separate testing plans per product category
• Include all lab reports in your compliance file