Manufacturers across the West Midlands have been urged to get to grips with new EU legislation on the use of chemicals which is likely to be passed soon.

The REACH (Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals) policy is at a consultation stage with European policy makers but will impact on firms across the continent.

Experts believe REACH will become law and therefore are calling on companies in the area to make sure they fit in with the new policy.

Any firms that manufacture chemicals, or use them to make other products to sell on to the public, will need to ensure they comply with the proposed new regulations.

The policy is based around the testing of chemicals including anything from detergents to dyes to make sure they are safe for the enduser. All the testing requirements in the proposed regulations have not been carried out on many substances in common use today.

Sophie Llewhelin, of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: "All the signals are pointing to the fact that this will become law but we will continue to lobby to try to see the legislation framed to limit the impact on local business.

"Companies that deal with chemicals particularly those where the product will come into contact with the general public must make sure they are up to speed with REACH.

"They can contact us here at the Chamber for advice or support, or speak to experts in the field of chemicals if they have any doubts at all."

Tim White, a chartered chemist and managing director of Marquis & Lord, said: "It is absolutely vital that firms know that their products meet the new requirements."