REACH foresees a restriction process to regulate the manufacture, placing on the market or use of certain substances, either on their own or in mixtures or articles, within the EU territory if they pose an unacceptable risk to health or the environment. Such activities may be limited or even banned, if necessary. The restriction is designed to manage risks that are not addressed by the other REACH processes or by other Community legislation.
From 1 June 2009, Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation replaced Directive 76/769/EEC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States, relating to restrictions on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations.