REACH Exemptions

Some substances are completely excluded from REACH regulation such as radio-active substances while other substances are partially exempted from REACH. For example, starch and polymers are exempted from registration, but they may be subject to other obligations under REACH.

Substances Completely Excluded from REACH

• Radio-active substances;
• Substances under customs supervision;
• Substances used in the interest of defence and covered by National exemptions;
• Wastes;
• Non isolated intermediates and transported substances;

Substances Exempted from REACH Registration

• Substances used in food stuffs;
• Medicinal products;
• Substances included in Annex IV of the REACH Regulation (68 substances known to be safe such as Nitrogen, Corn Oil);
• Substances covered by Annex V of the REACH Regulation. For example, by-products, hydrates.
• Substances which occur in nature, if they are not chemically modified. Minerals, ores, ore concentrates, cement clinker, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, natural gas condensate, process gases and components thereof, crude oil, coal, coke;
• Substances occurring in nature other than those listed under paragraph 7, if they are not chemically modified, unless they meet the criteria for classification as dangerous according to Directive 67/548/EEC. Examples include beewax and some fibres;
• Polymers (however, monomer shall be registered); More info about how polymers are regulated in EU and other countries, please click here.
• Recycled or recovered substance already registered;
• Re-imported substance;
• Substances used for the purposes of product and process oriented research and development (PPORD). Note: PPORD notification shall be submitted instead.

Substances Regarded as Registered

• Active substances for use in biocides;
• Active substances for use in plant protection products;
• Notified substances according to Directive 67/548/EEC.

Note: Chemicals used in cosmetics are not exempted from REACH at all.

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