Hazardous chemicals play a significant role in modern life, contributing to industry, healthcare, and workplace productivity. However, their misuse or mishandling can pose serious risks to human health and the environment. It’s not just workers who are at risk—exposure can occur at home through accidents or contaminated consumer products. Hazardous chemicals can pollute air, water, and food, harm wildlife, and disrupt ecosystems. Therefore, strict regulations and safety practices are essential for mitigating these dangers.

Regulations for Hazardous Chemicals

Organisations that use hazardous chemicals must comply with global safety standards like GSR 4 and GHCA to ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of these substances.

Classification of Hazardous Chemicals

Hazardous chemicals are categorised based on their dangerous properties:

1. Explosives

2. Gases

3. Flammable Liquids

4. Flammable Solids

5. Oxidising Substances

6. Toxic and Infectious Substances

7. Radioactive Materials

8. Corrosives

9. Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

Each category requires specific handling and safety precautions to prevent accidents.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Hazardous Chemicals

Engineering controls, like fume hoods and ventilation systems, are the first defence against chemical exposure. When these are insufficient, workers must use **PPE** as the second line of defence. The type of PPE depends on the task:

• Chemical-resistant gloves suited to the chemicals in use.
• Full-face, air-fed respirators for spray-painting or working with chemicals like isocyanates.

Employers must ensure the correct PPE is available, and workers are trained to use it properly.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Hazardous Chemical Regulation

Every organisation dealing with hazardous chemicals must adhere to the following regulatory requirements:

1. Medical Surveillance (RHCA 7): Regular medical evaluations to monitor workers’ health.

2. Exposure Assessment (RHCA 5): Assess workplace exposure to hazardous chemicals at least every two years.

3. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) (RHCA 14A): Manufacturers and suppliers must provide SDS for all hazardous chemicals.

4. Record Keeping (RHCA 9): Employers must maintain records of exposure assessments, air monitoring, and medical reports for 30 years.

Handling, Storage, and Transportation of Hazardous Chemicals

Proper handling and storage of hazardous chemicals reduce the risk of accidents. Key practices include:

• Ventilation in storage areas.
• No smoking or open flames near chemicals.
• Correct PPE during handling and transportation.
• Secure transport with competent operators and clear signage.

Emergency Procedures and Incident Response

Organisations must prepare for accidents involving hazardous chemicals. Emergency procedures should include:

• Raising alarms and contacting emergency services.
• Controlling spills, fires, or leaks safely.
• Evacuation plans and designated safe areas.

Spill kits and safety equipment must be readily available, and staff trained to manage emergencies.

Proper Storage of Hazardous Chemicals

Hazardous chemicals can pose risks even when not in use. Common risks include:

• Fire hazards from flammable chemicals.
• Corrosive damage to body tissues or structures.
• Toxic inhalation or suffocation from leaking gases.

It’s critical to store chemicals in a way that minimises these risks. Incompatible chemicals must be stored separately to avoid reactions that can cause fires, explosions, or toxic gas release.

Health Effects of Hazardous Chemicals

Exposure to hazardous chemicals can have severe health effects depending on the type of chemical, exposure level, and duration of contact. Common routes of exposure include inhalation, skin absorption, injection, and ingestion. Chemical exposure can affect various body systems:

• Skin: Irritation, dermatitis, or rashes.
• Reproductive System: Infertility, birth defects, and decreased reproductive capacity.
• Respiratory System: Lung diseases, chronic bronchitis, and asbestosis.
• Cardiovascular System: Heart failure or blood oxygen deficiencies.

Accidents and Incident Reporting

In case of chemical accidents, such as spills or leaks, organisations must report incidents to relevant authorities under Section 24. They must also have trained personnel, such as firefighters, to manage emergency situations effectively.

Cleaning Chemical Spills

Spills should be contained immediately to prevent further spread. Materials like sandbags or absorbent pads can help control spills, and regular waste removal should be practised to prevent hazardous buildup.

By adhering to regulations, using appropriate PPE, and implementing safety protocols for hazardous chemicals, organisations can significantly reduce risks to human health and the environment. Proper storage, emergency response, and continuous monitoring ensure a safe and compliant workplace.