Agencies and other EU bodies

European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) >>

Annankatu 18
FI-00120 Helsinki
Suomi/Finland

Tel: +358 9 6861 80
Fax: +358 9 6861 8210
Contact

European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is working to improve the quality of life by ensuring the safe use of chemicals across Europe. We are an Agency of the European Union.

ECHA is at the core of implementing the EU’s groundbreaking chemicals legislation for the benefit of human health and the environment, innovation and competitiveness.

ECHA was founded in 2007 and is based in Helsinki, Finland. We are a modern, science-driven organisation which has grown rapidly to become one of the largest agencies of the EU.

What we do

ECHA’s task is to ensure the consistent implementation of the EU chemicals regulations, REACH and Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP), across Europe.

We help companies to comply with chemicals legislation
We advance the safe use of chemicals
We address chemicals of concern
We provide information on chemicals

Chemical products surround us – they are vital in the production of anything from cleaning products or clothing to TV sets. They are essential to our economy and have a direct effect on our well-being, but their hazards have not so far been adequately understood.

Thanks to the EU chemicals legislation, we now have a unique database containing information on the chemical substances used in Europe. By better understanding the hazards of chemicals, companies can further reduce risks and contribute to their safe use. In shops you can request information on the substances of very high concern which may be contained in the consumer goods you buy. Substances of concern will also increasingly be replaced by safer alternatives. You and your environment will be better protected – in your home and at work.

Established: 1 June 2007

Executive Director:
Geert Dancet