REACH Compliance for Textile Production: Navigating REACH Standards for Textiles
The ability to sell textile products freely within the European market hinges on adhering to the standards laid out by the REACH regulation. This article will delve into the essential REACH standards for textiles, exploring how REACH compliance works for the textile industry.
Importance of REACH Compliance for Textile Manufacturers
All goods imported into the European Economic Area (EEA), as well as all substances manufactured in the EEA, must comply with the REACH regulation. Thus, REACH compliance allows for market access, providing the gateway to the European market (EU Member States as well as Iceland, Lichtenstein, and Norway).
Non-compliance with the REACH regulation leaves you vulnerable to financial penalties and legal action.
REACH Standards for Textiles
REACH regulates the use of dangerous chemicals known as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC). The content of SVHC in textile products sold in the EU must be no more than 0.1% of the total product weight. You can find a full Candidate List of SVHC on the European Chemicals Agency website.
For more information on REACH, including who must comply, read our guide to achieving compliance: REACH Compliance: What It Means for Your Business
Here are a few examples of chemicals used in textile products that are regulated under REACH:
Azo dyes: Many of these aromatic amines are restricted in Appendix 8 of Annex XVII to REACH, adopted from the initial directive 76/769/EEC. This is due to azo dyes’ potential to break down into carcinogenic aromatic amines, which can pose serious health risks upon exposure.
Phthalates: Not all phthalates are considered SVHC, although some, such as DIBP, DBP, BBP, and DEHP, are currently included on the Candidate List of SVHC. This is due to these phthalates’ propensity to act as endocrine disruptors or carcinogens.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): While individual PFAS have been identified as SVHC and some PFAS were restricted in REACH Annex XVII Entry 68, in February 2023, the ECHA proposed a sweeping restriction on the production and use of PFAS in Europe. PFAS are included on the list due to their links to cancer and hormone disruption. Many companies, including major footwear and clothing brand adidas, have already phased out these chemicals due to safety concerns.
Nickel: Nickel is restricted under REACH Annex XVII due to its potential to cause cancer, genetic defects, and infertility in certain exposure scenarios.
In 2020, an additional set of restrictions focused specifically on textiles went into force after the addition of Entry 72 to Annex XVII of REACH. This update restricts the use in textiles of 33 substances known or presumed to be a human carcinogen, mutagen, or reproductive toxicant. Under Entry 72, all footwear, clothing, accessories, and textiles that come into contact with human skin cannot contain restricted substances in a concentration equal or greater than regulated limits.
Chemicals restricted under Entry 72 include but are not limited to:
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
Cadmium and its compounds
Chromium VI compounds
Lead and its compounds
And more
Learn more in this webinar: Requirements under REACH and Entry 72: What You Need to Know
Beyond the substances discussed above, the REACH regulations also regulate the use of many other chemicals used in the textile manufacturing process. From the substances employed in dyeing to those present in finishing treatments, chemicals regulated by REACH are common in the textile industry. While many manufacturers are turning to alternative substances that are not restricted, you must be aware of any restricted chemicals used in your products to ensure compliance.
A comprehensive evaluation ensures that every facet of your textile production aligns with the REACH standards. That’s where laboratory testing comes in.
Do You Need Third-Party REACH Testing for Textile Products?
While in-house quality control and chemical management measures are vital, engaging third-party laboratories for REACH testing helps ensure compliance. Third-party laboratory testing enables you to assess the presence of restricted threshold-limited substances in your products.
At QIMA, our global network of chemical testing laboratories offers generalized REACH testing, in which your textile products are tested for the presence of all SVHCs. We also offer targeted testing based on the product type, in which we test your textiles only for the chemicals most likely to be present. By obtaining REACH compliance verification from a recognized and accredited third-party lab like QIMA, you avoid the risk of non-compliance and ensure access to the European market.
Learn more about our REACH testing service or contact us today.
More Resources:
Applying REACH Standards to the Textile Industry - Learn more about how testing helps you stay on top of REACH compliance.
Understanding the EU’s REACH Requirements - Learn the basics of REACH compliance for manufacturers and importers
Related Articles
