Regulatory Framework

The chemical industry has long sought to ensure that its products are safe. Like the rest of society, we want to be satisfied that chemicals, properly used, are as safe as possible, both from an environment and a health perspective.

National governments and the EU have strict regulations on consumer and environmental protection, occupational health, chemical processes and transport and the management of chemical substances. At an international level, the industry also complies with a number of programmes and conventions.

Getting responsible chemicals management recognized throughout the entire supply chain under a “proportionate framework” is our key objective.  As well as abiding by existing legislation, the chemical industry is committed to improving its management of chemicals and chemical processes through a combination of voluntary initiatives and specific action programmes, which are central to its commitment to Sustainable Development.

This section provides an overview of key regulations, soft laws and voluntary initiatives governing our operations