United Kingdom · Chemicals · 2026 changes
UK REACH and GB CLP changes in 2026: what manufacturers and importers need to know
Two chemical rule changes took effect in Great Britain in 2026: new UK REACH registration deadlines and the end of the GB CLP notification duty.
Short answer
From 6 August 2026, SI 2026/849 moves the UK REACH transitional registration deadlines that were due in October 2026, 2028 and 2030 to October 2029, 2030 and 2031. From 21 May 2026, SI 2026/484 removes the duty to notify HSE of the classification and labelling of substances placed on the GB market. Neither change sets new training intervals. SI 2026/849 · HSE: changes to GB CLP
UK REACH: new registration deadlines
The REACH (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2026 were made on 16 July 2026 and apply from 6 August 2026. They extend the deadlines for submitting registration data for substances that were transitionally registered. Deadlines previously set for 2026, 2028 and 2030 move to 2029, 2030 and 2031. SI 2026/849
Who it affects: GB manufacturers and importers of chemical substances with UK REACH registration duties. Update your compliance calendar; these are registration deadlines, not training deadlines.
GB CLP: the notification duty ends
From 21 May 2026, suppliers no longer have to notify HSE of the classification and labelling of substances placed on the GB market. The GB mandatory classification and labelling list is being replaced, with transitional arrangements. This affects GB manufacturers and importers, and Northern Ireland suppliers placing substances on the GB market. HSE: changes to GB CLP
What does not change at work
The duty to control exposure to hazardous substances at work stays in place. Employers who use chemicals should still keep safety data sheets, risk assessments and controls up to date, and make sure workers know the hazards of the substances they handle.
Do not describe these changes to staff as "fewer chemical safety rules". They change paperwork for suppliers, not the controls needed on the shop floor.
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Official sources
- SI 2026/849: REACH (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2026legislation.gov.uk · Checked 2026-10-30
- Changes to the GB CLP Regulationhse.gov.uk · Checked 2026-10-30
