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What REACH regulations have to do with contract fabrics

June 19th, 2023

REACH is a European Union regulation that directly affects various aspects of the textile industry, including contract fabrics. In this blog article, we will delve into the significance of REACH regulations and how they impact the production and use of contract fabrics.

What is REACH?

REACH is a regulation of the European Union that stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. It aims to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals, especially Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC). The identification and regulation of SVHCs aim to ensure the safe use of chemicals, protect human health, and minimise environmental impacts.

REACH regulations don't just stop at the factory door; they take the entire textile industry on a responsibility-filled journey

Every step of the supply chain, from manufacturers and importers to downstream users and retailers, is held accountable for identifying and managing the risks associated with chemicals used in textile manufacturing processes. It's a comprehensive regulation that ensures everyone involved takes part in safeguarding our health and the environment. By managing and controlling the presence of SVHCs in products, including textiles, the European Union seeks to promote the use of safer alternatives and encourage sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.

What are Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC)?

Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) are a category of chemicals defined by the European Chemicals Agency under REACH. SVHCs are substances that may have serious effects on human health or the environment, and they are subject to specific regulatory measures within the European Union.

The identification of SVHCs is an ongoing process

The ECHA regularly updates the Candidate List, which includes substances that are considered SVHCs. The inclusion of a substance on the Candidate List has implications for various stakeholders within the supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, and downstream users. The presence of an SVHC on the Candidate List triggers specific obligations and requirements under the REACH regulation.

An example: if an article (such as a textile product) contains an SVHC above a concentration of 0.1% weight by weight (w/w), the supplier of the article has an obligation to communicate this information to their customers and, upon request, to consumers. This allows consumers to make informed choices about the products they purchase.

The authorisation process under REACH may also apply to certain SVHCs

If a substance on the Candidate List is subsequently included in the Authorisation List, its use may require explicit authorisation from the ECHA. This means that specific permission is needed to continue using the substance, and it may be subject to time-limited or restricted use.

It is then, obviously, very important for textile manufacturers, importers, and downstream users to stay updated on the Candidate List and understand their obligations regarding SVHCs and current regulations.

The Scope of REACH in the Textile Industry

REACH regulations have a considerable impact on the textile industry, especially when it comes to contract fabrics used in commercial settings.

The primary focus of REACH is to protect human health and the environment from the potential risks posed by chemicals. This includes substances used in the production of textiles, such as dyes, finishes, and coatings. These restrictions can also be applied to metals found in zippers as well as the packaging materials that the fabric rolls ship in.

Registration and Evaluation of Chemicals

Under REACH, manufacturers and importers of substances or mixtures used in textile production are required to register them with the ECHA. This process involves providing information on the properties and safe use of the chemicals. The ECHA evaluates the submitted data to assess the potential risks associated with their use and ensures that they are used safely.

Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals

REACH also addresses the authorization and restriction of certain chemicals. Some SVHCs such as carcinogens or substances toxic to reproduction, may be subject to authorisation. This means that their use may require specific permission from the ECHA. Additionally, REACH imposes restrictions on the use of certain hazardous substances to protect human health and the environment.

Implications for Contract Fabrics

Contract fabrics used in commercial environments, such as hotels, offices, and healthcare facilities, must comply with REACH regulations. Interior designers and manufacturers must ensure that the textiles they specify or produce adhere to the required standards. This includes using chemicals that are registered and authorised while avoiding or limiting the use of restricted substances.

Implications for textile product supply chains

If a company relies on suppliers in their upstream supply chain for dyed or treated materials that they then plan to bring to the EU market, it is crucial to make sure that these materials meet all the relevant regulations. To demonstrate compliance, all suppliers need to provide accurate and regularly updated testing records. Related read:

However, if a company has direct control over all the chemicals used in the manufacturing process of their textiles, it becomes easier to ensure transparency and comply with the regulations of any target market as well as their own corporate standards. In this case, a company can conduct chemical testing without much difficulty.

It's clear then that if a company had any doubts about the reliability of their overseas supplier, it could impact their confidence in having a compliant product and ultimately may hinder their success in the market.

In such cases, conducting additional third-party chemical testing can help ensure that the supplier is dedicated to producing high-quality, compliant products as promised.

Speaking of sustainability and supply chains: we are an ISO 14001 certified company

While ISO 14001 certification is not directly tied to REACH compliance, it provides a valuable framework for us as a textiles company to meet our obligations under REACH, enhancing our overall environmental performance as a result.

This certification means that we monitor our mills' and suppliers' compliance with the ISO 14001 standard on environmental management, empowering them to develop practical systems so that we can all manage our environmental responsibilities together.

ISO 14001 establishes the criteria for an environmental management system and can be certified. Designed for any type of organisation, regardless of its activity or sector, it provides assurance that the environmental impact of
operations is being measured and improved.

The benefits of ISO 14001 for our customers are:

Minimised collective environmental footprint.
Diminished collective risk of pollution incidents.
Operations systems are continuously improved.

So, while ISO 14001 certification and REACH regulations are separate entities, they share common goals of environmental management and sustainability. Integrating REACH requirements into an ISO 14001-certified environmental management system empowers us to address chemical-related risks, ensure compliance, and drive continuous improvement in our environmental performance.

Compliance and Safety Considerations

To ensure compliance with REACH regulations, it is essential for textile manufacturers and interior designers to work closely with suppliers who provide certified fabrics. Suppliers should have proper documentation, such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which provide information about the chemicals used, potential risks, and safe handling procedures. By selecting REACH-compliant fabrics, interior designers can contribute to creating safer and healthier indoor environments.

Beyond REACH: Other Regulations

While REACH is a significant regulation governing chemical use, it is important to note that other regional and national regulations also exist. These may have additional requirements or specific restrictions that interior designers and textile professionals need to consider when selecting contract fabrics.

Passionate about fabrics? Us too!

Understanding the impact of REACH regulations on the textile industry is essential for textiles students and interior designers alike.

As we explored in this article, REACH regulations directly affect contract fabrics used in commercial settings. Interior designers and manufacturers must work closely with suppliers who provide certified fabrics to ensure compliance with REACH standards.

However, REACH is just one of many regulations governing the textile industry. It is crucial for professionals in the field to stay informed about other regional and national regulations that may have additional requirements or restrictions.

If you want to delve deeper into the world of textiles and enhance your knowledge about the industry, we invite you to explore our Fabrics Academy articles. Our online learning hub offers a wealth of resources that cover various topics, including fabric selection, sustainable practices, emerging trends, and regulations. By continuing to learn and expand your understanding, you can stay at the forefront of the textiles industry and make informed decisions in your design and manufacturing processes.

Remember, the world of textiles is constantly evolving, and keeping up with the latest developments is key to your success. Visit our Fabrics Academy and embark on a journey of continuous learning to further enhance your expertise in this dynamic field.