The abbreviation REACH is short for Regulation concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of CHemicals and it is part of the European Chemicals legislation. It entered into force in 2007 and aims to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment. At the same time it ensures the free circulation of chemicals on the internal market while enhancing competitiveness and innovation. The basic principle of REACH is that producers, importers, and downstream users assume responsibility for their chemicals. They must ensure that the chemicals they produce and market are used safely. REACH is one of the world’s strictest laws governing chemicals.