E-Switch REACH Position

Per the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) EU Chemicals Legislation, producers or importers of articles may or may not have to register these articles. An article is defined as an object whose shape, surface and design are more relevant than the chemical composition of the object. Electromechanical switches therefore are “articles”, and as such fall under the scope pertaining to said articles in the requirements for possible chemical registration. (See http://echa.europa.eu/reach_en.asp)

Since the articles (switches) are neither “intended to release substances above 1 ton/article”, or contain any of the SVHC substances (Substances of Very High Concern) >0.1% weight/weight, it is the E-Switch position that no registration or further action is required by E-Switch. For additional support or information, see published “Guidance For Articles”, used to determine registration requirements, here: http://reach.jrc.it/docs/guidance_document/articles_en.pdf, pages 23, 26 and 40.

E-Switch will continue to monitor the legislation and updated SVHC list, and will update our position as required to meet the current regulations.