Do you sell chemical products? Find out what a chemical risk assessment is, when it’s mandatory, and how it can help you avoid penalties, ensure compliance, and strengthen your sustainability performance.

In a market increasingly focused on safety and sustainability, assessing the chemical risks of the products you place on the market is not just a regulatory obligation: it’s also an opportunity to position your company as responsible and forward-looking.

However, many companies still don’t know when a risk assessment is required, what it involves, or why it is so important to carry one out, even when the law does not explicitly require it.

What is a Chemical Risk Assessment?

A chemical risk assessment is a technical process designed to identify, evaluate, and control risks to human health and the environment arising from the use of a chemical product under specific conditions.

The assessment analyses both the hazardous properties of the substances contained in the product and the intended conditions of use, for example:

• Is the product solid or liquid?
• Is it applied as a spray?
• Is its use frequent or occasional?
• Could there be skin contact or inhalation exposure?

 

Based on this information, hazards are identified, and appropriate risk management measures are established: safety instructions, recommendations on the use of PPE (gloves, masks), label redesign, or even product reformulation.

Is it mandatory to carry out a chemical risk assessment?

It depends on the type of product, but generally speaking:

• Yes, it is mandatory for products regulated under REACH, biocides, or cosmetics, or for substances subject to REACH authorisation.
• It is also required when certain hazard thresholds or volumes placed on the market are exceeded under the REACH Regulation.
• In other cases, it may not be mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. For example:
  • A cosmetic product is evaluated for user safety, but is its environmental impact considered?
  • A paint may comply with VOC limits, but is it safe for use on children’s furniture?

 

These questions illustrate why it’s essential to go beyond minimum compliance.

Why conduct a risk assessment even if it’s not mandatory?

More and more companies are voluntarily assessing their products as part of their commitment to:

• The safety of workers and consumers.
• The protection of the environment.
• Continuous improvement in product quality and processes.

 

A thorough risk assessment also helps to:

• Anticipate regulatory changes (e.g., REACH authorisation processes or inclusion in the Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern).
• Avoid penalties for improper use or classification.
• Protect brand reputation with customers and investors.

 

A well-documented risk assessment also facilitates other compliance tasks, such as CLP classification and labelling, preparation of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and notification to poison centres (as required under Article 45 of the CLP Regulation).

At ServiREACH, we help companies ensure compliance and manage chemical safety effectively:

• Identify whether your product requires a mandatory assessment under REACH, CLP, or other legislation.
• Evaluate real risks, even for products not yet clearly regulated.
• Ensure full technical compliance, minimise risks, and avoid penalties.
• Communicate risks clearly and safely to your clients and employees.

 

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Do you sell chemical products in Europe?

Do it safely, responsibly and without surprises.

Contact us and let us help you assess your products and achieve full compliance.