Navigating ECHA Compliance: Understanding PCN vs. REACH Reporting—and How CHEMTREC Can Help

In the complex world of chemical compliance, navigating European Union (EU) regulations can feel overwhelming. Two of the most critical reporting obligations under the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) are Poison Centre Notification (PCN) and REACH registration. While both are essential for safeguarding chemical safety and transparency, they serve distinct purposes and apply to different actors in the supply chain.
 

At CHEMTREC, we understand that compliance isn’t just about checking boxes, it’s about protecting people, the environment, assets, and reputations. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new ECHA Reporting Services, designed to support both PCN and REACH submissions as a seamless extension of our SDS Authoring Solutions.

What Is PCN?

Poison Centre Notification (PCN) is a requirement under the EU’s CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) Regulation. It mandates that importers and downstream users submit detailed information about hazardous mixtures to national poison centres. This data is used by medical professionals to provide life-saving treatment in case of exposure incidents.

Who needs to submit a PCN?

• Importers bringing hazardous mixtures into the EU
• Formulators creating mixtures from various substances
• Downstream users modifying mixtures in ways that affect their hazards

What’s required?

• Product identifiers (including UFI – Unique Formula Identifier)
• Full composition details
• Toxicological and packaging information
• Submitter contact details

What’s New in 2025?

As of May 2025, ECHA has launched a revamped Classification and Labelling Inventory, improving the transparency and accessibility of classification data. This supports more accurate PCN submissions and helps companies align with harmonized classifications. [Ref. All news - ECHA]

What Is REACH?

REACH stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. It applies to manufacturers and importers of substances in quantities of one or more per year. Unlike PCN, which focuses on mixtures, REACH is about registering individual substances to ensure their safe use throughout the supply chain.

Key differences from PCN:

• REACH applies to substances, not mixtures
• It requires substance registration, not just notification
• It involves data sharing and testing obligations
• It’s often managed by an Only Representative (OR) for non-EU companies

2025 Updates to REACH

• In June 2025, ECHA launched a new EU-wide enforcement project focused on the safe use of chemicals in workplaces [Ref. All news - ECHA]
• A new IUCLID release in May 2025 enhances dossier preparation and submission for REACH and PCN
• The Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) was updated in June 2025 and now includes 250 entries [ref. Homepage - ECHA]

Why the Confusion?

Both PCN and REACH are managed by ECHA, and both involve submitting chemical data—but they are not interchangeable. 

How CHEMTREC Can Help

CHEMTREC’s new ECHA Reporting Services are designed to take the guesswork out of compliance. Whether you’re submitting a PCN or registering under REACH, we offer:

• Integrated support with our SDS Authoring services
• Automated tools to streamline data collection and submission
• Expert guidance from regulatory specialists
  We’re here to help you meet your obligations efficiently—so you can focus on innovation, not paperwork.

Ready to Simplify Compliance?
If you’re already using CHEMTREC for SDS Authoring, adding PCN or REACH support is a natural next step. And if you’re new to CHEMTREC, there’s never been a better time to explore how we can help you stay compliant, competitive, and confident in the EU market.

Visit CHEMTREC or contact our team at sales@chemtrec.com to learn more.