10 reasons why chemical inventory should be on the HSE agenda

Dec 8, 2025 | Resources

10 reasons why chemical inventory should be on the HSE agenda

Chemicals are a natural part of everyday working life in many businesses, but a chemical inventory are often underestimated in day-to-day HSE work. That is why we have compiled ten good reasons why chemical inventory should be given higher priority on the HSE agenda.

1. Get a complete overview of chemicals in your business

A robust chemical inventory provides a comprehensive and structured overview of all chemicals in use, where they are located, and how they are handled. This makes it easier to identify products that are no longer in use, chemicals with overlapping functions, or substances that create unnecessary risks. Such an overview is also crucial for planning, purchasing, and safe storage of chemical products.

2. Complies with Norwegian legal requirements

Norway has strict requirements for companies that use hazardous chemicals, anchored in both the Working Environment Act and the Regulations on the Performance of Work. One of the requirements is an up-to-date and accessible chemical inventory that ensures that the company has the latest version of safety data sheets (SDS). This strengthens compliance with the regulations and makes the company better prepared for inspections.

3. Strengthens internal control and documentation

The chemical inventory is a key part of the internal control system. When the company documents which chemicals are used, the hazards they pose, and the measures that have been implemented, a clear overview is created. This gives management a better basis for following up on HSE work and ensures that the company works more systematically with chemical management.

4. Ensures adequate training of employees

Employees who work with chemicals on a daily basis must have access to accurate and up-to-date information. The chemical inventory makes it possible to actively use SDS, see hazard classifications and recommended protective measures in training and practical work. When safety information is easily accessible, the risk of misuse and misunderstandings is reduced.

5. Reduces the risk of injuries and accidents

Access to updated information on health hazards, first aid, and proper handling increases safety in daily work. Many chemical accidents are caused by lack of knowledge, improper storage, or incorrect use of protective equipment. A well-maintained chemical index helps prevent such incidents and can reduce both health hazards and material damage.

6. Better risk assessments

The chemical inventory provides necessary information about exposure hazards, reactions, storage requirements, and risk reduction measures. This makes risk assessments more accurate and provides a better basis for choosing the right protective measures, working methods, and technical solutions. A comprehensive chemical inventory also makes it possible to monitor the development of risk over time.

7. Better preparedness for accidents and emergencies

In the event of spills, leaks, fires, or other undesirable incidents, time-critical information is crucial. The chemical inventory provides immediate access to information about first aid measures, extinguishing methods, measures in the event of accidental spills, and special handling requirements. This enables employees and emergency services to deal with the situation more quickly and effectively.

8. Simplifies substitution work

Norwegian regulations require companies to consider less hazardous alternatives wherever possible. An electronic chemical inventory makes it easier to identify high-risk substances and compare alternatives. This makes substitution efforts more targeted and contributes to a safer working environment.

9. Streamlines operational management

A digital chemical inventory saves time by providing easy access to documentation and automatic updates of safety data sheets. It reduces the need for manual routines and improves workflow between departments. A more efficient workflow can lead to financial savings over time.

10. Strengthens the safety culture

When a company prioritises overview, accessible information, and clear procedures, it sends a clear signal that safety is taken seriously. An ideal chemical inventory makes it easier for employees to take ownership of HSE work and creates a culture where safe chemical handling is a natural part of the working day.

The list makes it clear that the chemical inventory is a more important HSE tool than many people may realise. When a company prioritises keeping its chemical inventory up to date and accessible, it can contribute to increased safety and quality in the workplace. That is why the chemical inventory belongs on the HSE agenda – every single day.

Chemical management: 10 tips for a safer workday

Oct 2, 2025 | Resources

Chemical management: 10 tips for a safer workday

Are you responsible for HSE and chemical management in your organisation? Here are 10 tips to help make your working day a little safer.

1. Create a clear chemical inventory

Make sure that your company has a chemical inventory that provides a complete overview of all hazardous chemicals in the workplace. Here, employees can easily see where the chemicals are located and what hazards they can cause.

2. Easily accessible safety data sheet

All chemicals must have an updated safety data sheet (SDS) with information on chemical handling, hazards, protective equipment and first aid measures. Therefore, make sure that these data sheets are easily accessible to employees (e.g. via QR code, on mobile/tablet), so that they can be actively used in the daily operation.

3. Training in safety practices and procedures

Employees must receive thorough training in the company’s safety routines and procedures. This can include everything from risk assessment to the choice and use of protective measures. If there are no clear guidelines for handling chemicals, the employer must ensure that such guidelines are established quickly and that employees receive adequate training in them.

According to the Labor Inspection Authority, training can include:

Hazardous chemicals in the workplace, their names, risks and limits
Use of chemical inventory, risk assessments and changes to these
Correct use of work equipment
Necessary protective measures for safe execution
Managing disruptions and emergencies

4. Clear labeling and storage

All chemical products must be labeled with names and hazard symbols in accordance with the CLP regulations, and stored properly. This may involve storage in separate cabinets or rooms. For particularly hazardous chemicals, it may be necessary to lock cabinets or restrict access so that only qualified personnel have access.

5. Customised protective measures

Safety measures must always be adapted to the actual use of the chemicals and the specific work operation.

Examples of measures can be:

Spot extraction and fume cupboards
Sufficient general ventilation
Process-adapted ventilation when needed
Correct labeling and signage
Secure storage solutions
Restricted access
Protective gloves and goggles
Respiratory protection
Emergency response equipment

6. Follow established regulations

Working with chemicals is regulated by several laws and regulations, including the Working Environment Act, Regulations on the Performance of Work, and the REACH and CLP regulations. Be sure to follow these regulations carefully as violations can lead to fines and orders, but more importantly, compliance contributes to fewer accidents and a safer working environment. The Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority and the Norwegian Environment Agency regularly publish guidelines and updates that can be useful to follow.

7. Consider alternative chemicals

Always consider whether hazardous chemicals can be replaced with less hazardous alternatives(substitution). This reduces risk and is part of the substitution obligation. If your business uses a chemical management system, it can often provide automatic suggestions for safer alternatives.

8. Digitise documentation

A chemical inventory can be kept both on paper and digitally, but digital solutions often provide a better overview and ease of use. When documentation is digitised, it becomes easier to search for chemicals, update safety data sheets and share information across departments. Many systems also offer functions such as automatic notification of expired SDSs, suggestions for substitution and integration with risk assessments and internal control. A great idea is therefore to gather all documentation digitally in one place.

9. Revise and improve

Safe handling of chemicals is not a one-off task, but a continuous process as part of the company’s systematic HSE work. New chemicals, changed work routines or updated laws and regulations may require adjustments to routines and measures. Therefore, the company should regularly review the chemical inventory, safety routines and risk assessments to ensure that they are still relevant.

10. Involve your employees

Involve employees in chemical management and auditing work, as they have practical experience that can contribute to better solutions. When the people who actually work with chemicals are actively involved, you create both better routines and a stronger safety culture.

Safe chemical handling is about combining well-structured routines and systems with the right equipment and active employee involvement. By following these 10 tips, your business can reduce risk, prevent accidents and contribute to a safer working environment.