As our ability to use chemicals has increased so has our concern about the effects some chemicals have on health and the environment. People in all walks of life are asking:

• What are the disadvantages to the greater use of chemicals?
• Do the benefits outweigh the risks?

To continue enjoying the benefits of chemistry we need to find the optimum balance between risks and benefits.

To do this we need reliable methods of risk assessment.

Risk management and risk minimisation then become attainable goals.

Managing the risks will be much easier if they can be minimised.

Who can contribute to risk minimisation?

INDIVIDUALS - handling chemicals carefully and protecting the environment by recycling.

GOVERNMENT - by enacting appropriate legislation and ensuring that it is effectively implemented.

CHEMICAL INDUSTRY - by ensuring that it conducts its total business according to the highest international standards of health, safety and environmental protection.

Responsible Care represents a total public commitment to continuous improvement in the areas of health, safety and the environment.

It is also a commitment to the responsible management of chemical industry products from cradle to grave. It is also much, more more. With Responsible Care, the chemical industry has embarked on a journey of profound cultural change, opening its doors to a sceptical public and saying “Don’t trust us, track us.

“Responsible Care

reflects an ethic, an attitude, a method of thinking about the way member companies do business and their role in society. It addresses the reality that corporate values must emphasise a long-term commitment to community and occupational health and safety and to environmental protection. It does not contain static requirements that once met, never change. Rather, it necessitates continuous performance improvement in an environment of changing knowledge and regulation.”

Jean Belanger – Former President, Chemical Producers’ Association (Canada)

“Responsible Care

is the most comprehensive, the most ambitious health, safety and environmental initiative ever put together by a manufacturing industry. It’s a model of positive industry response to changing public perceptions.”

H. Eugene McBrayer – Former Chairman,

Chemical Manufacturers’ Association (USA)

1984 Started in Canada

1994 Adopted in 36 countries and in Africa by South Africa

1998 Adopted in 42 countries

Community awareness and involvement are key features of the initiative.

Responsible Care also reflects the chemical industry’s concern for:

• the health and safety of its employees and of the public
• environmental protection and rehabilitation
• introducing cleaner technology
• sustainable development

There are also other benefits for the chemical industry:

• improved productivity
• better quality products
• lower consumption of energy and water
• less waste generated
• reduced insurance premiums

Guiding Principles

• To recognise and respond to community concerns about our operations and our chemicals.
• To develop and produce chemicals that can be manufactured, transported, used and disposed of safely.
• To make health, safety and environmental considerations a priority in our planning for all existing and new products and processes.
• To report promptly to officials, employees, customers and the public, information on chemical-related health or environmental hazards and to recommend protective measures.
• To counsel customers on the safe use, transportation and disposal of our chemical products.
• To extend knowledge by conducting or supporting research on the health, safety and environmental effects of our products, processes and waste materials.
• To work with government and others to resolve problems created by past handling and disposal of hazardous substances
• To participate with government and others in creating responsible laws, regulations and standards to safeguard the community, our employees and the environment and we will endeavour to ensure that such laws are based on scientifically supported data and/or expert opinion.
• To promote the principles and practices of Responsible Care by sharing experiences and offering assistance to others who produce, handle, use, transport or dispose of chemicals.

Management Practice Standards

· Health and Safety of Persons

Protect the health and safety of persons working on site and persons in the vicinity of worksites.

· Storage and Distribution of Chemicals

Minimise storage and distribution related incidents, improve emergency response systems, address community concerns.

· Transportation of Chemicals

Minimise transport related incidents, improve emergency response systems to safeguard the workplace, community and the environment.

· Waste Management and Pollution Control

Achieve responsible waste management, prevent pollution and reduce waste generated to protect the public and the environment.

· Community Awareness and Emergency Response (Caer)

Prepare community, control emergency incidents to safeguard people and to minimise damage to property and the environment.

· Product Stewardship

Ownership of product from cradle to grave.

Self Assessment Questionnaire

Establishing targets for implementation of the six Management Practice Standards

Public Advisory Panel

Providing a forum in which the concerns and suggestions of the public can be channelled to the Association.

Quantitative Indicators of Performance

Measuring improvements in health, safety and environmental performance.

External Verification

Evaluation of Responsible Care implementation by external agencies and individuals.