Working safely with chemicals

Wijngaarden VeiligGoed is the expert when it comes to workplace safety. We understand that working with chemicals is an important part of many business processes.

It is therefore crucial to ensure that you and your employees are aware of the correct safety measures and safety procedures to minimise risks and ensure a safe working environment.

On this page, we share important information about working safely with chemicals.

Why working safely with chemicals is important

Broadly speaking, we distinguish two main reasons for this:

Protection of workers
Laws and regulations

Protection of workers

Ensuring the safety and health of your workers is of paramount importance. By applying safety measures when working with chemicals, you minimise the risk of accidents, exposure to toxic substances and other health risks.

Laws and regulations

There are strict laws and regulations in place regarding working with chemicals.

Working safely with chemicals: the ten key steps

Inventory
Risk assessment
Management measures
Safe storage and handling
Good ventilation
Safety data sheets
Training and awareness
Emergency procedures and first aid
Regular inspections and maintenance
Management commitment

Inventory

Start by taking stock of the chemicals used in your business. Identify the risks associated with these substances and make a list of safety regulations and protective equipment that are needed.

Risk assessment

Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify the potential hazards and risks associated with working with the chemicals. In doing so, take into account the properties of the substances, routes of exposure, health effects and possible reactions with mixed substances.

Management measures

Implement effective management measures to reduce risks. This may include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respiratory protection, gloves and safety glasses. Make sure the right PPE is available and that your employees are properly trained in its proper use.

Need help putting together the right PPE? Feel free to contact one of our advisers!

Safe storage and handling

Ensure safe storage of chemicals according to applicable regulations. Ensure that your employees are trained in the proper handling of chemicals, including the correct opening and closing of containers, the spill avoidance and cleaning up spillages according to proper procedures.

Good ventilation

Ensure adequate ventilation in the workplace where chemicals are used. This is especially important in confined spaces to reduce the concentration of harmful vapours. Consider installing ventilation systems or opening windows and doors to let fresh air in.

Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

Make sure you always have access to the up-to-date safety data sheets of the chemicals used. These contain valuable information on the properties of the substances, exposure limits, safety regulations and emergency procedures.

Training and awareness

It is essential to regularly train and make your employees aware of the risks and safety precautions when working with chemicals. Make sure they obe aware of the possible dangers, how to recognise them and what measures they should take to protect themselves.

Also make sure your employees are knowledgeable about the proper use of the associated PPE. Besides supplying PPE, Wijngaarden VeiligGoed also offers trainings on the use of PPE.

Emergency procedures and first aid

Make sure your employees know how to act quickly and effectively in case of a spill, fire or exposure. Ensure that a well-equipped first aid kit is always present and that first aiders are available to provide assistance.

Regular inspections and maintenance

Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with chemical storage, handling and safety measures. Check the condition of the storage facilities, the functionality of ventilation systems and the availability and condition of personal protective equipment.

Management commitment

Ensure that management is actively involved in ensuring safety when working with chemicals. Such as allocating sufficient resources for security measures, the supporting training and awareness programmes, the regular evaluation of safety performance and the promoting a safety culture within the company.

Support on 'Working safely with chemicals' theme

At Wijngaarden VeiligGoed, we understand the importance of working safely with chemicals. We supply high-quality personal protective equipment (PPE), providing expert advice to ensure that your employees can work safely in environments where chemicals are used.

Our team of safety specialists is ready to support you in choosing the right PPE for your specific needs. We can help you select respiratory protection, gloves, safety goggles and other protective equipment that meets current safety standards and is suitable for the chemicals you work with.

In addition, we offer extensive advice on safety procedures, training and awareness programmes to ensure your employees are well prepared and aware of the risks when working with chemicals.

Feel free to contact Wijngaarden VeiligGoed for tailored advice and the supply of matching PPE. Our experienced team is on hand to answer all your questions and support you in creating a safe working environment when working with chemicals.

Note: The information in this text is intended as general advice and should not be considered a substitute for specific professional advice. Always consult applicable laws and regulations and contact an occupational safety and health expert for a thorough assessment of your specific situation.

More information

Our advisors are happy to help you or make an appointment if you wish.

Phone: +31 184 434 455
Mail: info@veiliggoed.nl