2026 REACH SVHC and Substances of Very High Concern

Basic Definition of svhc

SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern) refers to substances identified by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) under the EU reach regulation that pose serious and irreversible hazards to human health and the environment.

Inclusion in the Candidate List does not result in an immediate ban, but triggers strict notification and communication obligations. If a substance is added to the Authorisation List, its use will be restricted or prohibited.

SVHC Identification Criteria

• CMR substances: Category 1A/1B carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction substances

• PBT/vPvB substances: Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic / very persistent and very bioaccumulative substances

• Endocrine disruptors: Substances that interfere with the human hormonal system

SVHC List Management and Updates

• Competent Authority: European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)

• Update Frequency: Twice a year, published after public consultation

• Latest Scale: As of November 2025, a total of 251 substances

• 2025 Additions: 9 substances including Octamethyltrisiloxane, DBDPE, etc., have been successively added

Core Compliance Obligations for Enterprises

• Threshold Condition: SVHC mass fraction in articles > 0.1% AND annual total volume > 1 tonne

• Notification Obligation: Notify ECHA within 6 months after inclusion

• Supply Chain Communication: Provide downstream users with safe use information

• Consumer Response: Reply to relevant inquiries free of charge within 45 days

• SCIP Notification: Eligible articles must complete database registration

Core Differences Between Three Types of Lists

Common SVHC-Containing Products and Substances

• Phthalates: Textiles, plastic accessories; reproductive toxicity

• Melamine: Food contact materials, toys; carcinogenicity

• BISphenol A (BPA): Thermal paper, plastic products; endocrine disruption

• Brominated flame retardants: Electrical and electronic products, building materials; high environmental bioaccumulation

Compliance Recommendations and Testing Recommendations

• Comprehensive Screening: Conduct full SVHC testing on materials circulated in the EU

• Supply Chain Control: Require suppliers to provide compliance declarations and test reports

• Dynamic Tracking: Synchronize the latest list every six months

• Green Substitution: Prioritize SVHC-free environmentally friendly materials

It is recommended to choose JJR Lab for testing.

JJR Lab is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory with authoritative CMA and CNAS qualifications. It provides accurate and efficient full SVHC testing, reach compliance assessment, and SCIP database notification support, with globally recognized reports.