The restriction process represents a “safety net” against risks presented by certain dangerous substances, mixtures or articles and not addressed by other REACH processes, in particular by the registration obligation. The list of existing restrictions forms the annex XVII of the regulation.

Restriction proposals

As soon as the list of prepared dossiers is published by ECHA, interested parties can communicate comments or socio-economic information concerning the suggested restrictions. If it is demonstrated that these latter are the most appropriate measures to reduce the risks, the process goes on with the introducing of restrictions.

Introducing of restrictions

The Committee for Risk Assessment and the Committe for Socio-economic Analysis examine the dossiers and formulate an opinion concerning the proposed restrictions. These opinions are published by the Agency and submitted to the Commission which finally decides to amend or not Annex XVII by adopting new restrictions or amending current restrictions.

Content of annex XVII

Annex XVII presents all the substances concerned by restrictions and the related conditions. It incorporates the restrictions adopted in the framework of Directive 76/769/CEE1 and the new measures stemming from the REACH procedure. These restrictions apply to a substance on its own, to a mixture or an article containing it, and may concern its manufacture, its placing on the market or some of its uses. Restrictions may go as far as suspending the manufacture and the uses of a substance.

1. Directive relating to restrictions on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations.