UK's HSE Proposes Adding 9 Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) to UK REACH Candidate List

On July 9, 2026, the UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued a notice to initiate a public consultation on the inclusion of nine chemical substances on the UK REACH Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) candidate list, covering flame retardants, plasticizers, UV absorbers, fluorinated compounds, and other categories. The deadline for submitting comments is August 20, 2026. The chemical team at CIRS Group provides the following analysis.

Details of the 9 Proposed Substances

Next Steps

The HSE stated that if no valid comments are received during the consultation period, the substances will be automatically added to the candidate list. If comments are received, HSE will make a final decision within 45 days after the consultation ends. Stakeholders may submit scientific, technical, and use-related information. It is worth noting that if the proposal is based on the GB mandatory classification and labelling list (MCL), challenges to the MCL itself will not be accepted. However, information on substance uses, quantities, exposure scenarios, and alternatives may be considered for subsequent prioritization assessments for the authorisation list.

CIRS Insights

If a substance is included in the candidate list, suppliers must fulfil the following statutory obligations:

1. Information Obligation for Substances in Articles

If an article (as defined) contains a substance on the candidate list at a concentration exceeding 0.1% weight by weight (w/w), sufficient information must be provided to the recipient of the article to ensure its safe use. The information must, as a minimum include the name of the substance. This obligation applies to the supply of articles to recipients who use or handle the articles in the course of their work. If a consumer (general public) makes a request, equivalent information must also be provided. The information must be provided within 45 days of receiving the request.

2. Notification of Substances in Articles

If articles containing a substance on the candidate list are manufactured, imported, or supplied, a notification may need to be submitted to HSE.

3. Information Obligation for Substances in Mixtures

If a supplied mixture is not classified as hazardous under GB CLP regulations but contains a substance on the candidate list at a concentration of 0.1% (w/w) or higher in a non-gaseous mixture, a safety data sheet must be provided upon request.

4. Information Obligation for Substances

If a supplied substance is included in the UK REACH candidate list, a safety data sheet (SDS) must be provided to the customer.

About CIRS

Established in 2007, the CIRS Group is a leading product safety and regulatory consulting firm. CIRS has branch offices in the Republic of Ireland, South Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan and China. CIRS Group utilizes its technical expertise, various resources, and international network to provide one-stop compliance services from regulatory compliance, laboratory testing, R&D to data services across multiple industries. This includes chemicals, cosmetics, food and food beverages, medical devices, agrochemical products, disinfectants, and consumer goods. It helps clients gain a competitive advantage by reducing business risks associated with regulatory affairs.

CIRS Services

• Only Representative (OR) services in the UK
• Grandfathering consultation services
• UK REACH notification (DUIN) services
• UK REACH full registration services in the UK
• Chemical regulatory compliance consulting services in the UK

If you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via service@cirs-group.com.

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