Frequently Asked Questions About SVHC Testing
What is an SVHC?
There are certain substances of particular concern and REACH regulation calls for the progressive substitution of the most dangerous chemicals when suitable alternatives have been identified. These substances are referred to as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs).
How many SVHCs are there?
At present it lists over 200 chemical substances and can be viewed here: https://echa.europa.eu/candidate-list-table. The Candidate List is a current list of SVHCs that is updated by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
How are SVHCs a core part of REACH regulation?
REACH regulates the use of SVHCs by:
- Setting compliance limits - the total SVHC content of an article should not exceed 0.1% (1000ppm)
- Promoting replacement chemistry – manufacturers are encouraged to use replacement chemistry
Are SVHCs regulated globally, as well as in Europe?
Some substances on the SVHC list are regulated in other global legislation however limits can vary depending on the type of product and its end use. For further information on compliance with international legislation, please contact BLC on +44 (0) 1604 679 999 or email [email protected].
What are the risks of non-compliance with the SVHC list?
If your business manufactures, imports, distributes or retails products in the European Union and decides not to carry out SVHC testing, then your business could be exposed to chemical risks such as:
- Potential for products, materials and components to contain unsafe levels of SVHCs
- No provision of chemical assurance or compliance for customers and consumers
- Potential for increased customer complaints and product returns
- Being subject to significant financial penalties from ECHA
What happens if my product has been tested and does not comply with REACH?
Any supplier of articles containing a SVHC at a concentration above 0.1% (w/w) has to provide available, relevant safety information about the substance to the recipients of these articles.
The information is to be provided to the recipients automatically, i.e. as soon as the substance has been included on the Candidate List. This is a legal obligation within the regulation.
On request from a consumer, the same information has to be provided free of charge and within 45 calendar days of the request.
How do I further my understanding of SVHCs and REACH regulation?
Eurofins | BLC provides the Half Day Understanding REACH Training Course which takes place at Eurofins | BLC’s Northampton offices in the UK. The course explains the differences between Annex XVII, Annex XVI, and the Candidate List, as well as your business’ obligations to comply.
Can’t find the answer to your question?
Contact Eurofins | BLC’s chemical experts today on +44 (0) 1604 679 999, email [email protected] or complete the contact form at the bottom of this web page.