Chemical control measures in the EU are soon to be dramatically revised, and this Rapra Review Report sets the scene by describing the key facts of the existing measures and the objectives of the future chemicals policy: REACH. REACH - Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals - will place a duty on companies that manufacture, import and use chemicals in the EU to assess the risks arising from their use and manage any risks identified. With industry concerns about the cost of compliance in terms of testing, in-house management, and scientific and regulatory advice and consultancy, this Rapra Review Report presents the essential details of the objectives and timescales involved with the legislation. The objective of the new legislation is to ensure a high level of protection for human health and the environment whilst maintaining an efficient internal market and innovation and competitiveness in the chemical industry. The author covers the main points, with abstracts from the Polymer Library identifying the sources for further reading on this subject. This Rapra Review Report is essential reading for chemical and material manufacturers and suppliers. It describes clearly the forthcoming fundamental changes to chemical control in the EU.