Protective equipment and measures when handling chemicals
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.
Chemical Inventory: What it is and its requirements
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.
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.
Safe waste management and waste declaration of hazardous chemicals
Waste management and waste declaration of hazardous chemicals require more than just sorting at source – they require careful planning, proper handling and clear documentation. Here we have gathered the basics you need to know about safe handling and declaration of hazardous waste.
Why safe handling of chemical waste is important
Chemical waste is not like other waste. It may contain hazardous substances that are flammable, corrosive, toxic, reactive and/or harmful to the environment. Many accidents occur after chemicals have been used, when they are stored or disposed of incorrectly.
A thorough risk assessment should always form the basis and include hazards related to storage, transport, interim storage and disposal. Such risk management is an important part of the organisation’s health, safety and environment (HSE) work.
Chemical waste is not only a workplace risk; it can also have a significant impact on the environment. Improper handling can lead to contamination of soil, water and air, and create long-term environmental consequences.
Classification and labelling of waste
It is important that all classified chemical waste is labelled correctly before it is stored or sent to a receiving facility. This includes, among other things:
Identification of the type of substance (e.g. corrosive, flammable or toxic)
Use of appropriate packaging that can withstand the contents
Clear labelling with contents, date, responsible person and hazard pictograms
Separation of incompatible substances (e.g. acids and bases)
Waste declaration
Waste declaration is the process by which organisations report the types and quantities of hazardous waste they generate. Its purpose is to ensure traceability and the safe handling of waste from its point of origin through to final treatment.
In many countries, organisations that produce hazardous waste are required to deliver it to an authorised collection or treatment facility and complete a waste declaration in advance. This is often done through a national or digital reporting system before the waste is transferred.
Roles, responsibilities and training
It must be clearly defined who is responsible within the organisation. This will often be an HSE manager or subject specialist with overall responsibility for chemical handling and waste declaration.
Everyone who handles hazardous waste must have the necessary training in chemical safety, procedures and emergency preparedness. This should form part of the organisation’s systematic HSE work.
Checklist: Safe waste management and waste declaration
Make sure you can tick off these points. Then you are well on your way to ensuring safe and efficient waste management:
Use appropriate packaging (e.g. sealed, labelled and compatible with the chemical)
Clear labelling of chemical waste
Ensure correct interim storage of chemicals
Complete waste declaration before delivery
Establish fixed routines for emptying and handling
Carry out regular risk assessments
Provide employees with adequate training
Document and track your waste
Ensure sufficient ventilation and containment in the waste area
Have emergency preparedness and protective equipment available
Safe handling and correct waste declaration of hazardous chemicals require planning, proper procedures and clear documentation. When this is an integrated part of HSE work, the risk of accidents is reduced and the organisation ensures both compliance with regulations and responsibility for people and the environment.
Chemical management: How artificial intelligence (AI) affects substitution
Chemical substitution, replacing hazardous chemicals with less harmful alternatives, has long been an important tool for improving health, safety, and the environment. In the past, this work has been time-consuming and complex. Now, artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how companies in many industries work with chemicals and risk reduction.
Today’s challenges with substitution
Finding safer alternatives to existing chemicals is rarely straightforward. Companies often have to consider:
Hazard classification and health effects
Technical performance and function
Regulations and regulatory requirements
Availability in the supply chain
Traditionally, this has been done manually, by comparing safety data sheets (SDS), regulations, and internal experiences. The result can be lengthy processes, divergent assessments, and an increased risk of errors. This, in turn, can delay the introduction of safer chemicals and make it more difficult to meet HSE and sustainability requirements.
KI as support in substitution
Artificial intelligence makes it possible to work more systematically and data-driven with chemical substitution. Instead of relying on manual searches and individual assessments, AI can analyse large amounts of chemical data in a short time and provide structured suggestions for alternatives. This can contribute to a better overview, more consistent assessments, and faster decision-making processes.
Although AI can provide valuable analyses and recommendations, the results must always be evaluated by qualified professionals. AI is a decision support tool and not a substitute for chemical, HSE, or regulatory expertise.
Faster identification of safer alternatives
With the help of AI, companies can quickly analyse large amounts of SDS data and other chemical information. The system can suggest substances or products with lower hazard levels, similar functionality, and better regulatory status.
This is particularly useful when regulations change or when there is a need for rapid transition to safer solutions.
Automated assessment of hazards and risks
AI can help interpret complex data, classify hazards, and calculate risk levels in a more standardised way. This reduces differences in assessments between departments and projects.
In addition, KI can reveal incomplete or outdated information, enabling the business to identify where updates or professional reviews are needed.
Better control of regulations – nationally and internationally
Many companies operate in several countries or have to comply with both local and international requirements. AI-based solutions can monitor regulatory changes and automatically check whether chemicals and proposed alternatives comply with current requirements.
This reduces the risk of unintentional regulatory violations and supports a more proactive approach to chemical management.
Support for sustainability and ESG work
KI can also be used to compare environmental properties such as degradability, ecotoxicity, emissions, and life cycle impact. This provides a better basis for decision-making for companies that work systematically with sustainability, environmental reporting, and ESG requirements.
Artificial intelligence is simplifying and improving the work of chemical substitution. For companies that want to reduce risk, improve the working environment, and be better equipped for future requirements, AI-based solutions can be an important step forward. When used correctly, artificial intelligence can contribute to safer chemical use, better compliance with regulations, and more sustainable choices – across industries and national borders.
