Chemical risk management

If your business uses chemicals, prepare for the risks they pose and problem situations carefully in advance. Identify the risks comprehensively and realistically and take the necessary precautions. In the best case, it can prevent problems altogether.

Train and instruct your employees to work with chemicals. Advise them on correct working methods and the appropriate use of machinery and equipment. In addition to guidance on normal work, give them guidance on what to do in problem situations and in case of accidents.

Keep machines and equipment clean and in good condition.  Remember to service them systematically. You should also buy the necessary prevention and rescue equipment in case of problem situations and accidents. Regularly check that the equipment is functioning properly.

Prepare rescue and recovery plans and other necessary instructions in writing. Organise accident drills regularly too. Make sure that the flow of information works in problem situations too.

According to the Chemical Safety Act, and the Occupational Safety and Health Act, as an entrepreneur you are responsible for the chemicals used in your company as well as for their risk assessment and management.

It is your responsibility to ensure that the chemicals used in your company do not constitute a danger to people, the environment or property. However, if an accident does occur, it is your responsibility to limit its consequences to the minimum. Keep in mind that chemicals can cause problems and damage at any time during the operation, such as transport storage, handling and final disposal.

If, in spite of precautions taken, chemicals used in your company do cause environmental damage, the primary responsibility lies with the company that caused the damage. You can be liable for environmental damage even if the damage was not caused through negligence or intentionally. Compensation for the damage is agreed on a case by case basis within the framework of environmental damage legislation.