REACH stands for the EC Regulation concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation (or Restriction) of Chemicals. It was published December 30th 2006 in the EC Official Journal and has become effective with its scheduled deadlines June 1st 2007 in all EU member states.

All substances manufactured or used in quantities of 1 t p.a. or more - be it 'pure' be it in mixtures - must be registered for their safe use at the European Chemicals Agency ECHA. The manufacturer/importer must provide an Extended Safety Data Sheet to the downstream user, which contains exposure scenarios for all registered substances.

In Europe the SDS design is regulated by Annex II of the REACH Regulation. An adaptation regulation of the REACH Regulation, concerning the requirements of the CLP Regulation, is in preparation.