The SCIP Database is a secure, centralized portal managed by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). SCIP stands for Substances of Concern In articles as such or in complex objects (Products). Established under the EU Waste Framework Directive (WFD), it tracks hazardous chemicals specifically Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) present in physical consumer goods. The portal ensures that critical chemical information remains transparent across a product's entire lifecycle, helping waste operators recycle materials safely and allowing consumers to make informed choices.
Maintaining access to the European single market requires strict adherence to SCIP data submissions.
If an article contains an SVHC on the ECHA Candidate List in a concentration greater than 0.1% weight-by-weight (w/w), the following EU-based entities must submit data:
Note: Retailers supplying directly and exclusively to end consumers are generally exempt.
To remain fully compliant, compliance teams must handle the following tasks:
The graphic below maps the data ecosystem from gathering manufacturer info to ECHA validation—which underpins the practical steps required for compliance.
Step 1.
Collect declarations from upstream suppliers to identify materials.
Step 2.
Verify if any listed SVHC exceeds 0.1% w/w inside any sub-component.
Step 3.
Input clear safe-use instructions, product codes, and chemical data into IUCLID software.
Step 4.
Submit the technical dossier to ECHA and obtain your unique SCIP number.
A German business imports a batch of specialized multi-tool bottle openers from Asia. A material test reveals that the internal brass locking rivet contains 1.2% w/w Lead (an SVHC). Because the rivet itself is an independent article exceeding the 0.1% threshold, the importer generates a dossier through IUCLID, provides specific instructions for safe recycling, and uploads it to ECHA. They receive a SCIP number, securing uninterrupted clearance through EU customs.
An EU registry tracking hazardous chemicals (SVHCs) in consumer products to promote safer waste recycling.
EU manufacturers, assemblers, importers, and B2B distributors handling goods with over 0.1% w/w SVHCs.
Yes, it has been a legal requirement across the EU since January 5, 2021.
The ECHA portal does not charge a filing fee; costs stem from testing and administrative labor.
Firms face merchandise seizures at customs, severe financial fines, and immediate marketplace listing bans.
No. Only legal entities based within an EU Member State can submit notifications.
An object given a specific shape, surface, or design during production which determines its function more than its chemical composition.
A Substance of Very High Concern, flagged by the EU for possessing highly hazardous traits.
Yes. Packaging elements are treated as separate individual articles under the directive.
Whenever component designs change or ECHA publishes updates to the official Candidate List.
Managing technical chemical entries, verifying supply chain components, and creating complex IUCLID dossiers can disrupt internal workflows and risk market exclusion.
At Complico Consulting GmbH, we handle your end-to-end EU safety obligations. From SVHC testing coordinates to successful SCIP Database uploads and complete GPSR coverage, our specialists keep your business fully functional.
Secure your European sales channels today. Head over to www.complicoconsulting.com to book a custom diagnostic review with our regulatory compliance unit.
