Chemicals are a natural part of everyday operations in many organisations, but improper handling can have serious consequences for health, safety and the environment (HSE). Chemical risk assessment is therefore a key HSE measure for identifying hazards and implementing the necessary controls. In this article, we explain what risk assessment is, why it is important, and how chemical risk assessments can be carried out in practice.
What is chemical risk assessment?
Chemical risk assessment involves a systematic review of the hazards associated with chemical substances and mixtures, combined with an assessment of their use and how employees may actually be exposed during their day-to-day work.
The aim of the risk assessment is to determine whether the use of chemicals or a work activity involves an unacceptable risk of exposure, and what measures may be required to reduce the risk to an acceptable level.
Why is risk assessment important?
Chemicals can have serious consequences if they are not handled correctly. A systematic risk assessment gives the organisation an overview of the hazards associated with the use of chemicals and the measures needed to reduce risk and prevent injuries and incidents.
Health hazards
Many chemicals can cause harm to health if employees are exposed to them over time or through accidental contact. The health effects may be both acute and long-term, and can range from skin irritation, burns and eye injuries to allergies, respiratory problems, organ damage or cancer. The level of risk depends on both the properties of the chemical and the degree of exposure. A chemical risk assessment helps to identify relevant health hazards, assess how exposure may occur in day-to-day work, and ensure that appropriate measures are put in place to protect employees.
Fire and explosion hazards
Some chemicals are flammable, explosive or chemically reactive, and may pose a serious safety risk if they are stored, handled or used incorrectly. Vapours from flammable liquids can be ignited by sparks, hot surfaces or static electricity, leading to fire or explosion. A chemical risk assessment helps to identify such hazards and assess the risks associated with use, storage and handling, so that appropriate preventive measures can be put in place.
Environmental hazards
Chemical substances can harm the external environment if they are released into air, soil or water. Releases may occur as a result of spills, leaks, improper waste handling, or incidents during production and maintenance processes. A risk assessment evaluates the risk of environmental impact and provides the basis for measures to reduce the risk of pollution and environmental damage.
Regulations such as REACH and CLP set requirements for the handling of chemicals, labelling and documentation. Organisations are therefore legally required to carry out and document chemical risk assessments.
What are typical examples of situations where a risk assessment is required?
Chemical risk assessments must be carried out and updated in several situations, including:
When introducing new chemicals
When changes are made to work methods or processes
When new hazard information about a chemical becomes available
When new work tasks or equipment are introduced
Following incidents or near misses
As part of regular reviews of HSE work
If you are unsure whether a risk assessment is necessary, it is generally better to carry out one too many than one too few.
How to carry out a chemical risk assessment
There are several methods for carrying out a chemical risk assessment, but regardless of the method, the process should be systematic and documented. Below is a general approach that can be used as a starting point.
1. Ensure an up-to-date chemical inventory
The risk assessment process begins with establishing an overview of the chemicals used in the organisation. The chemical inventory must contain valid and up-to-date safety data sheets for all chemical substances and mixtures. This information must be accessible to employees, and chemicals that are no longer in use should be removed. An accurate chemical inventory forms the basis for further risk assessment.
2. Define the work involving the chemical
To ensure effective implementation and a realistic assessment of the risks associated with the use of chemicals, it is important to first clarify how the risk assessments should be structured and defined.
A practical approach is to carry out risk assessments for groups of chemicals, for example by:
Assessing chemicals used in the same work activity
Grouping chemicals within the same category or type of use
By identifying which chemicals can be assessed together, significant efficiency gains can be achieved. This reduces the need for individual assessments of each chemical, while providing a more practical and operational picture of risk.
3. Assess the hazardous properties of the chemical
The next step is to identify the hazards associated with the chemicals. This is done by reviewing the safety data sheets and assessing their classification. This includes identifying health hazards, environmental hazards, and physicochemical properties such as fire or explosion risks. The assessment provides an indication of how severe the consequences may be if exposure occurs.
4. Assess exposure and existing control measures
Risk largely depends on how chemicals are used in practice. It is therefore necessary to assess how employees may be exposed, including the work activities carried out, the quantities handled, how often and for how long the work takes place, and the relevant exposure routes, such as inhalation, skin contact or splashes. Existing control measures, such as ventilation and the use of personal protective equipment, must be included in the assessment. The purpose is to evaluate the risk-reducing effect of these measures and to document which controls must be used by end users when handling the chemicals.
5. Determine the level of risk
Once both hazard and exposure have been assessed, the level of risk can be determined. This involves evaluating the likelihood of an unwanted event occurring and the potential consequences if it does. The result provides the basis for deciding whether the risk is acceptable or if further measures are required.
6. Implement risk-reducing measures
If the risk assessment identifies the need for measures, these must be planned and implemented. Measures may include substitution of hazardous chemicals, technical solutions such as ventilation, changes to work procedures, employee training, or the use of personal protective equipment. The measures should be integrated into the organisation’s procedures, instructions and training programmes to ensure a lasting effect.
7. Document and review
All parts of the risk assessment must be documented so that the assessments can be reviewed and verified. The risk assessment must be kept up to date and revised when there are changes to chemicals, work processes, or following incidents. Regular review helps ensure that chemical risk assessment remains an active and integrated part of HSE work.
The employer has the primary responsibility for ensuring that risk assessments are carried out and followed up. Managers, safety representatives and employees should be involved, so that the assessment is based on practical knowledge of the work tasks.
Risk assessment in Workplace Safety
In Workplace Safety, chemical risk assessments are carried out directly within the system, linked to each individual chemical in the chemical inventory. The user is guided step by step through the assessment, from identifying hazardous properties and exposure conditions to evaluating work methods, storage and risk level. Chemicals can be assessed together in a simple and efficient way within the system, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with their use.
Workplace Safety facilitates structured documentation, risk assessment and follow-up of risk-reducing measures. Once the risk assessment is completed, it is stored together with the chemical and can easily be revised when there are changes in use, work processes or regulations.
Chemical risk assessment is a fundamental part of an organisation’s HSE work and an important tool for preventing injuries, incidents and adverse environmental impact. Tools such as Workplace Safety make it easier to carry out, document and follow up chemical risk assessments in practice, helping organisations gain better oversight, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain a safe working environment over time.
A chemical inventory is a legally required overview of hazardous chemicals and a central part of a company’s health and safety (HSE) management. The inventory provides employees with quick access to safety data sheets (SDS), risk assessments and information on safe handling in line with current regulations. Here you will find a clear explanation of what a chemical inventory is, the legal requirements that apply in Europe, and how to get started.
What is a chemical inventory?
A chemical is considered hazardous if it is classified under European legislation as posing a health hazard, physical hazard or environmental hazard. A chemical inventory is a collection of necessary information about hazardous chemicals in the workplace, including safety data sheets.
The purpose of a chemical inventory is to make it easy for employees to find relevant information for safe and efficient handling of chemicals. The safety data sheets provide guidance on both preventive measures – such as the use of protective equipment, correct storage and handling routines – and reactive measures in the event of accidents, such as spills, fires or exposure to chemicals. In this way, the chemical inventory serves as a practical tool both in day-to-day HSE work and in emergency situations.
A chemical inventory is mandatory for companies that handle hazardous chemicals. The requirements are based on regulations from the European chemical legislation REACH and the CLP Regulation.
What should a chemical inventory contain?
As a minimum, the chemical inventory must contain:
Chemical overview with names, classification, hazard symbols and updated SDS for hazardous chemicals
Information sheets for non-classified chemicals in the workplace, such as pharmaceuticals, welding fumes and other process-generated chemicals
Both the employer and the employee have certain responsibilities, but it is the employer who is primarily responsible for creating and maintaining the chemical inventory.
The employee’s responsibility:
Use personal protective equipment in accordance with the information in the chemical inventory and the SDS
Familiarise themselves with the contents of the SDS before using new chemicals
Follow instructions for storage, labelling and disposal of hazardous substances
Participate actively in risk assessments where required
Help prevent accidents by reporting hazardous conditions or near misses
Ensure safe handling to protect themselves and their colleagues
The employer’s responsibility:
Identify and maintain an overview of the chemicals used in the business
Carry out risk assessments when using hazardous chemicals
Ensure that SDS are available in the language needed and updated in accordance with current legislation
Update the chemical inventory when new chemicals are introduced or when regulations change
Ensure substitution of hazardous chemicals where possible (replace with less hazardous alternatives)
Verify that employees have access to and understand the information in the chemical inventory
Implement necessary protective measures based on the SDS
Ensure regular review and revision of the chemical inventory
Common challenges
Lack of quality control of SDS
For many companies, keeping their chemical inventory up to date is a challenge. Data sheets or chemical overviews may be out of date, resulting in incorrect or incomplete information. This weakens HSE work and can lead to both orders and fines from the authorities.
Difficult to find information
In the past, it was a requirement that the chemical inventory should be on paper. Many companies still use physical binders, which results in a lot of manual work. Regardless of the format, the MSDS can contain large amounts of information that can be difficult to navigate without good routines and adequate training.
Benefits of a digital chemical inventory
A digital chemical inventory can make day-to-day work easier for those responsible for chemical management. When all safety data sheets and risk assessments are gathered in one system, there is no need to search through binders or separate folders. It also becomes easier to add new products when they are purchased and to remove or archive chemicals that are no longer in use.
Many digital solutions provide notifications when a safety data sheet has been updated by the supplier, making it easier for the companies to keep information aligned with the latest available version. Search functions and filtering options make it quicker to find the correct product and the relevant protective measures. In addition, employees can access the chemical inventory via mobile phone or tablet while working on site, which can be helpful when information is needed quickly.
A digital chemical inventory does not in itself ensure effective health and safety performance, but it can support a more organised, consistent and systematic approach to managing chemicals in the workplace.
Get started with a digital chemical inventory
An effective chemical inventory starts with clear procedures for purchasing and systematic HSE work, as described in the company’s management system. Ensure that roles and responsibilities are clearly defined so that the chemical management system is followed up and maintained.
Map the chemicals: Get an overview of all chemicals present in the workplace
Build structure: Organise your chemical inventory to reflect how and where chemicals are stored
Enter information: Register the chemicals and retrieve approved safety data sheets, preferably through an easy-to-use chemical management system (such as Workplace Safety)
Make the information accessible: Make sure that all employees who handle chemicals have easy access to the chemical inventory
Keep your inventory up to date: Add new chemicals when purchasing, and archive products you no longer use
An up-to-date chemical inventory gives your company control over the chemicals it uses and is a legal requirement to prevent damage to health and the environment. With a digital and automated chemical system, it is easier to ensure that the information is always up-to-date, correct and accessible.
Working with chemicals places high demands on safety, knowledge, and thorough procedures. The correct use of protective equipment is essential for protecting employees from health hazards and preventing accidents in the workplace. In this article, we explain why protective equipment is so important, the types that exist, and how to choose the right protection when handling chemicals.
The importance of protective equipment when handling chemicals
When working with chemicals, risks must primarily be prevented through technical and organisational measures. If the risk cannot be eliminated or sufficiently reduced through such measures, personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used.
Protective equipment acts as a barrier between the worker and hazardous chemicals and aims to prevent injuries. Missing or incorrect use of protective equipment can lead to exposure to chemicals that can have serious consequences. That is why it is important that companies have clear procedures for when and how to use protective equipment, and that employees have the necessary knowledge about the risks associated with the chemicals they work with.
Working with chemicals and the use of protective equipment are regulated through various occupational health and safety requirements, including national workplace safety legislation as well as international regulations such as REACH and CLP regulations.
Different types of protective equipment and measures when working with chemicals
Measures to reduce risks when handling chemicals can be divided into technical measures, organisational measures, and personal protective equipment. Technical and organisational measures should always be considered first.
Organisational measures
Organisational measures concern how work is planned, organised, and carried out in order to reduce risk when handling chemicals. Such measures help ensure that employees have the right knowledge, safe procedures, and clear work processes.
Examples of organisational measures:
Risk assessment: Mapping and assessment of risks associated with the use, storage and handling of chemicals. The risk assessment forms the basis for which measures and protective equipment are required.
Safe job analysis (SJA): A systematic review of work tasks before work starts, to identify hazards and ensure that necessary measures are in place.
Training and competence: Employees must be adequately trained in chemicals and associated hazards, use of protective equipment and safe handling.
Routines and procedures: Clear procedures for handling, storing, labelling and disposing of chemicals help reduce the risk of errors and accidents.
Access to safety data sheets: Employees must have easy access to up-to-date SDSs describing hazards, necessary measures and proper use of protective equipment.
Technical measures
Technical measures aim to reduce or eliminate exposure to hazardous chemicals at the source. Such measures contribute to a safer working environment for everyone in the area and can reduce the need for personal protective equipment.
Examples of technical measures:
Ventilation and local exhaust extraction: Removes hazardous vapours, gases, and particles from the work area before they can be inhaled. Effective ventilation reduces exposure and improves air quality.
Fume cupboards: Used when working with volatile or hazardous chemicals to prevent vapours and aerosols from spreading in the room. They protect both the user and the surrounding environment.
Closed systems and process enclosure: Prevent direct contact with chemicals by keeping processes physically contained. This reduces the risk of spills, leaks, and exposure.
Splash shields and barriers: Protect against splashes and unintended contact with hazardous substances during work. They help limit the consequences if an incident occurs.
Emergency and eyewash showers: Provide the possibility for rapid rinsing in case of exposure to chemicals. Quick access can significantly reduce the extent of injury.
Personal protective equipment
PPE is used when risks cannot be eliminated or sufficiently reduced through other measures. This is equipment used by the individual employee and must be suited to both the work task and the chemicals being handled.
Examples of personal protective equipment:
Respiratory protective equipment: Protects against the inhalation of harmful gases, vapours, dust, or aerosols. The correct type and filter must be selected based on the risk.
Eye and face protection: Prevents splashes and particles from coming into contact with the eyes and face. Used where there is a risk of chemical splashes or flying particles.
Gloves: Protect the hands from direct contact with chemicals and help prevent skin damage. The choice of material must be suited to the substances being handled.
Footwear: Chemical-resistant and slip-resistant footwear protects the feet from spills and provides safer movement in the work area.
Protective clothing: Protects the skin and body from splashes, spills, and exposure. This can range from aprons to full chemical protective suits, depending on the level of risk.
Choosing the right protective equipment
When selecting protective equipment, a thorough risk assessment should first be carried out. What type of work will be performed? What are the possible consequences? How likely is exposure? These questions form the basis for choosing appropriate protective equipment.
The risk assessment should take several factors into account:
Which chemicals are used, and how are they classified?
How can exposure occur, for example through splashes, inhalation, or skin contact?
How long does the work operation last, and how often is it carried out?
What is the working environment like, for example in terms of ventilation, temperature, and available space?
Can a combination of several chemicals or processes increase the risk?
The employer is responsible for ensuring that the necessary protective equipment is available in the workplace and that employees receive the required training in how to use it. Employees, in turn, are responsible for using the protective equipment as they have been trained and for reporting if the equipment does not meet requirements or has faults or deficiencies.
Chemical management system as support for safe chemical handling
A system for managing chemicals can simplify and streamline the work related to protective equipment and documentation. With systems such as Workplace Safety, organisations can:
Gain a complete overview of the chemicals used in the organisation
Access recommended protective equipment from safety data sheets
Ensure access to up-to-date safety data sheets
Document risk assessments and training
Communicate necessary measures to employees
By gathering information in one place, it becomes easier to ensure compliance with requirements and to work systematically with safety.
Proper handling of chemicals requires a comprehensive approach to safety. By combining technical measures, organisational measures, and the correct use of personal protective equipment, organisations can reduce risks and prevent health hazards. Accurate risk assessments, clear procedures, and adequate training are essential to ensure a safe working environment. When measures and protective equipment are used correctly, they provide the foundation for a safe and responsible working day when working with chemicals.
Did you know that all hazardous chemicals must have a safety data sheet? A safety data sheet can be the difference between control and chaos if an accident occurs. Find out what a safety data sheet is, why it is so important, and common challenges for businesses.
What is a safety data sheet (SDS)?
A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a document (digital or hard copy) that provides an overview of how chemicals should be handled, used and stored. All SDSs follow a standard 16-point layout so that the information is easy to find, no matter what chemical you are working with.
All companies that manufacture, import, distribute or use hazardous chemicals must have access to up-to-date safety data sheets. This requirement applies both to suppliers and to employers who handle chemicals as part of their daily operations.
Examples of sectors where SDS are required:
Agriculture and aquaculture
Automotive and mechanical engineering
Cleaning and facilities management
Construction and civil engineering
Healthcare
Industrial manufacturing
Laboratory and research
Painting and surface treatment
What is the difference between a safety data sheet and a chemical inventory?
A safety data sheet applies to one specific chemical. It describes the hazards associated with the substance, how it should be handled and used safely, and what to do in the event of spills, fire or other incidents.
A chemical inventory is a complete overview of all hazardous chemicals within a business. It contains all the safety data sheets and enables employees to quickly find the information they need.
In short: A safety data sheet provides detailed information about one chemical. A chemical inventory brings together all the safety data sheets used within the organisation in one place.
Why do we need safety data sheets?
SDSs are needed to handle chemicals safely, protect employees from health hazards and describe procedures for first aid, fire and spills. Not only that, but updated SDSs are required by law through REACH and CLP, and are an important part of a company’s health, safety and environment (HSE) work.
Examples of situations where SDS is needed:
When receiving new chemicals in the workplace: When a new chemical is introduced into the organisation, the SDS must be reviewed to assess risks, the need for personal protective equipment (PPE), storage requirements and any special precautions.
In the event of spills, fire or other incidents: In emergency situations, the SDS provides clear instructions on how to handle the incident, which extinguishing agents may be used, and how to protect people and the environment.
During inspections by authorities: Regulatory authorities may require documentation showing that the business has up-to-date SDS and that they are actively used as part of health and safety management.
During the transport of dangerous goods: The SDS contains information on classification, packaging and labelling required for safe transport and compliance with current regulations.
When using a new chemical: Before a new substance is put into use, employees need to understand its hazards, the required protective measures and the correct handling procedures. The SDS provides the foundation for instruction and training.
For waste handling: The SDS provides guidance on how chemical residues and packaging should be handled and disposed of safely to prevent environmental harm and legal breaches.
In risk assessments: The SDS is used as a basis for identifying hazards, assessing risks and implementing necessary preventive measures within the organisation.
What should a safety data sheet contain?
A safety data sheet is always structured according to a fixed 16-point template. This makes it easy to find the right information, no matter what chemical you are working with.
The 16 points consist of:
Identification (name of the substance/product and supplier)
Hazard identification (health, fire and environmental hazards)
Composition (content and hazardous components)
First aid measures (what to do in case of accidents)
Firefighting measures (suitable extinguishing media and protective measures)
Measures in the event of a spill (handling of spills and leaks)
Handling and storage (safe procedures and storage requirements)
Exposure controls/protective equipment (limit values and protective equipment)
Physical/chemical properties (appearance, smell, boiling point, etc.)
Stability/reactivity (conditions that may cause hazardous reactions)
Toxicology (effects on health)
Ecology (impact on the environment)
Disposal consideration (waste management)
Transport (UN number and transport requirements)
Regulations (laws and regulations that apply)
Other information (additional info and update date)
Who is responsible?
The supplier’s responsibility
The SDS must be free, up-to-date and available to professional users. Among other things, the data sheet must contain limit values and relevant emergency number. In the event of new information or regulatory changes, the supplier must update the SDS and send it to customers who have received the product in the last 12 months.
The employer’s responsibility
Procedures must be established to ensure that safety data sheets are of satisfactory quality, meet the requirements of the regulations and are updated when new information or versions become available. The employer is responsible for checking the SDS when new chemicals are used, ensuring that the data sheets are up to date, and obtaining missing information from the supplier if they are incomplete.
If an error is discovered, the employer must check whether a newer version is available and contact the supplier for an update.
Known challenges
Difficult to keep SDS up to date
Many companies find it challenging to keep their chemical inventory and SDS documentation up to date. When the company uses chemicals from several manufacturers and suppliers, it quickly becomes challenging to keep track of all the changes they make to their SDS.
There are no fixed deadlines for updating data sheets, and changes can therefore be made at any time. SDSs must be revised as soon as there is new information about hazards or regulations. This requires structured routines to ensure that the SDS is always updated in relation to the chemicals the company actually uses.
Safety information must be easily accessible and understandable for employees
It is a legal requirement that employees have easy access to safety data sheets for the chemicals they work with. In practice, this can be challenging if the data sheets are stored in digital systems that employees have not been adequately trained in, behind passwords, or only exist in paper archives.
Most people who handle chemicals at work are not chemists, and it can be challenging for employers to provide ongoing and necessary training in how an SDS should be understood and used.
A proper SDS provides an overview, creates security and ensures compliance with legal requirements. When companies take safety data sheets seriously, both HSE work and emergency preparedness are strengthened. So make sure you have a system that makes it easy to keep all safety data sheets up to date and available, so that safety information becomes a natural part of your daily work with chemicals.
In chemical management, having an overview is crucial. Organisations must know which chemicals are in use, what inherent hazards they present, and which legal requirements apply. To manage chemical risks in a systematic and documentable way, a number of hazard lists and regulatory lists have been established.
Hazard lists and regulatory lists identify substances with particularly hazardous properties, regulate their use and placing on the market, and provide guidance for substitution, reporting, and risk assessment. This article explains what these lists are, how they relate to each other, and what they mean in practice.
What is meant by hazard lists and regulatory lists?
Hazard lists and regulatory lists are two closely connected mechanisms within chemicals legislation. Hazard lists identify substances with particularly problematic properties. Regulatory lists set out specific legal requirements related to these substances, such as information obligations, authorisation requirements, or prohibitions.
For organisations, this means they must both understand the risks associated with the substances they use and be aware of the legal obligations that apply. Together, the lists form the basis for sound chemical management and compliance with regulatory requirements.
The difference between hazard and regulation
Hazard relates to the inherent properties of a substance, for example whether it is carcinogenic, toxic for reproduction, or persistent in the environment. Regulation concerns the legal consequences of these properties.
A substance may be hazardous without being prohibited, yet still be subject to information obligations or expectations of phase-out. This distinction is essential for correct risk assessment and compliance.
Hazard lists
Hazard lists are based on scientific assessments and are used to identify substances that should be prioritised in risk assessment and substitution efforts. Typical criteria include:
CMR properties (carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction)
PBT/vPvB (persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic substances)
Endocrine-disrupting properties
Hazard lists function as an early warning system. Inclusion does not necessarily mean prohibition but signals increased regulatory attention.
Examples of hazard lists
Harmonised classification — CLP Annex VI
The IARC list (cancer hazard)
PBT and vPvB identification
Regulatory lists
Regulatory lists are directly anchored in legislation and specify which substances are subject to concrete requirements or prohibitions.
The central framework in the EU and EEA is the REACH Regulation. REACH is based on the principle that companies themselves are responsible for documenting safe use (“No data – no market”).
Examples of regulatory lists
REACH Candidate List
Authorisation List
Restriction List
Norwegian Priority List
How hazard lists and regulatory lists are connected
Regulation often occurs stepwise: a substance is first identified as problematic, placed on a candidate list, and may later become subject to authorisation or restrictions.
For organisations, this means chemical management is dynamic. A substance that today appears only on a hazard list may later become strictly regulated. This requires continuous oversight.
REACH’s three key lists
Candidate List (SVHC List)
The candidate list contains substances identified as SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern), i.e. substances with particularly serious properties. These can, for example, be carcinogenic, harmful to reproduction, persistent and bioaccumulative or endocrine disruptors.
When a substance is added to the candidate list, a duty of disclosure is triggered. In other words, the supplier must provide information about the presence of such substances above certain concentration limits. In addition, it creates a clear expectation that companies consider the substitution of products containing such substances. The candidate list therefore serves as an initial warning that stricter measures may be forthcoming.
Authorisation List
The authorisation list (REACH Annex XIV) contains substances that cannot be used without specific authorisation. Authorisation requires a comprehensive application, documentation of risk and assessment of alternative solutions.
If a substance is included on the Authorisation List, it is a clear signal that it is being phased out of the market. For many organisations, this means substitution becomes the most realistic solution in practice.
Restriction List
The restriction list (REACH Annex XVII) contains specific restrictions or bans on certain substances or areas of use. Restrictions may, for example, be that a substance is not permitted in consumer products, that concentration limits apply, or that its use is restricted to certain industries.
Norwegian Priority List
Norway also has a national priority list of pollutants that is managed by the Norwegian Environment Agency. The list is actively used in inspections and can often be stricter than the EU’s minimum requirements.
Today, the list includes 85 substances and substance groups, including:
Heavy metals: Persistent metals that can accumulate in organisms and cause serious health and environmental damage.
Endocrine-disrupting substances: Affect the hormonal system and may cause reproductive and developmental harm.
Flame retardants: Used to reduce fire risk, but several are persistent and bioaccumulative.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Highly persistent substances that degrade slowly and can accumulate in the environment and humans.
Organotin compounds: Toxic substances that can harm aquatic organisms and affect the hormonal system.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): Compounds often formed during combustion, several of which are carcinogenic.
UV stabilisers: Used to protect materials from sunlight; some are persistent and potentially endocrine disrupting.
Dioxins and furans: Highly toxic and persistent compounds that can form as by-products in industrial processes.
Siloxanes: Used in cosmetics and technical products; some are highly persistent and bioaccumulative.
Chlorinated organic substances: Often persistent and bioaccumulative compounds with significant environmental and health risks.
Other organic substances: A collective group for organic compounds with serious and long-term environmental effects.
New substances are continuously assessed, and the list is updated on an ongoing basis.
Hazard lists and regulatory lists give businesses insight into both risk and regulation. Understanding the difference between the inherent properties of substances and the legal framework that applies makes it easier to make the right choices in practice. Chemical management is constantly evolving. New substances are assessed, lists are updated and requirements change. To maintain control, companies must have an up-to-date overview, structured documentation and good systems for assessment. Digital solutions such as Workplace Safety bring this information together in one place and make it easier to work systematically with safe and forward-looking chemical management.
