FACTBOX-All about the EU chemicals bill REACH

(Reuters) - The European Union is preparing a major new chemicals reform law known as REACH. In 2005 a version of the bill went through the European Parliament and the council of EU member states.

A second reading on the bill is expected later this year. The bill has to be approved by both parliament and member states.

Below are several facts about the draft law:

WHAT IS REACH?

*REACH is a new regulatory system proposed by the European Commission to make producers and importers of chemicals prove that the substances they put on the market in the European Union are safe for consumers to use.

REACH stands for Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals. It applies to about 30,000 chemicals found in products as diverse as cars, computers and paint.

WHAT DOES THE COMMISSION'S PROPOSAL REQUIRE?

*All chemicals produced in or imported into the EU in quantities of at least one tonne per year must be registered with a central database. A series of tests is required to provide that information, varying according to the volume of the substances in question.

*Chemicals that are of "very high concern" such as those that can cause cancer, damage genes or have an effect on fertility, and those that are persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) would have to go through an evaluation.  Continued...