This is how to work safely with chemicals in 2024
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
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 important to regularly train and make your employees aware of the risks and safety measures 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 safety measures. Check the condition of the storage facilities, the functionality of ventilation systems and the availability and condition of personal protective equipment.
Read more about maintenance and inspection of PPE on this page.
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.
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.
Our advisors are happy to help you or make an appointment if you wish.
Phone: +31 184 434 455
Mail: info@veiliggoed.nl