Restriction is a tool for protecting human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals. Restrictions usually limit or ban the manufacture, placing on the market or use of a substance.

In some cases, a restriction may set out specific conditions such as technical measures or labelling requirements.

A restriction may be applied to any substance on its own, in a mixture or in an article. The substance may even be one that does need to be registered under REACH.

Restrictions are not applicable to on-site isolated intermediates, substances used in scientific research and development, and substances that only pose risks to human health through their use in cosmetics.