AFE and REACH compliance

As you may be aware, the European Union has created a comprehensive regulation to govern the Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals (REACH, EC Regulation No 1907/2006).

This regulation has far-reaching effects throughout the supply chain in that it governs the materials present in manufactured end products (articles) as well as the chemical substances and preparations used in their manufacture. Unlike the RoHS Directive (2002/95/EC), REACH applies to all production and use sectors, not just to electronics.

Under the scope of 'REACH', AFE are considered to be a supplier of Articles only.

Substances and preparations may be used in the manufacture of some AFE articles; however none will be included for any intended release. In terms of percentage of w/w, any residual substances or preparations, if present, will only exist in such minute quantities that under the tonnage trigger threshold stated in the regulations there will be no need for AFE to make any declarations.

REACH also makes reference to SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern).

AFE is currently reviewing the latest version of the SVHC list to ensure compliance, and is looking forward to making a full statement of compliance early in 2009.

More information about Reach and its requirements can be found here