All substances, mixtures and articles containing substances that are manufactured in or imported into the EU market (e.g. electronics, furniture, toys, textiles, etc.).

Products such as food, medicinal products, cosmetics and polymers themselves are exempted from registration, but may still be subject to other REACH provisions.

Any substance manufactured in or imported into the EU at ≥ 1 tonne per year must be registered with ECHA, accompanied by data on composition, uses, and toxicological properties.

ECHA and Member States examine the completeness and plausibility of registration dossiers to determine whether the substance poses risks to human health or the environment.

Substances listed on the SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern) list may only be used if an authorisation has been granted; this drives their progressive substitution.

For certain high-risk substances, REACH imposes use limitations or complete bans, set out in Annex XVII (covering ~70 substance groups).

If an article contains an SVHC above 0.1 % (w/w), suppliers must provide safe-use information to downstream users and consumers.