The regulation aims to prevent, prepare for, and respond to “chemical accidents” in facilities that handle chemical substances—whether they import, produce, store, distribute, sell, repackage, or manage them as waste.
The regulation aims to prevent, prepare for, and respond to “chemical accidents” in facilities that handle chemical substances—whether they import, produce, store, distribute, sell, repackage, or manage them as waste. Its purpose is to protect public health, reduce environmental risks, and minimize economic losses resulting from incidents involving hazardous chemicals.
What are the most relevant implications for the facility?
· Risk reduction: Minimizes the likelihood of incidents involving hazardous substances (spills, leaks, fires, contamination), reducing harm to workers, the community, and the environment. This protects people’s well-being and the organization’s reputation.
· Legal compliance: Complying with the regulation enables operations under the appropriate permits (health permits, certifications), helping avoid penalties, health orders, permit suspensions, or even closure due to non-compliance.
· Institutional and social trust: Demonstrating operational control, safety protocols, and contingency plans strengthens credibility with authorities, neighboring communities, and potential clients or partners—especially in environmentally sensitive or higher-risk areas.
· Improved operational management: Maintaining an up-to-date inventory of chemicals, processes, risks, and impacts supports administration, planning, and internal control—strengthening efficiency, loss prevention, and responsible management of waste or emergencies.
· Social and environmental responsibility: By complying with the regulation, the organization helps protect public health and the environment, minimizing negative impacts associated with hazardous chemicals—an essential factor in sensitive community settings.
What are the facility’s obligations?
· Classify the facility’s risk level based on the types, quantities, and hazard level of the chemical substances it handles. This technical assessment must be performed by a licensed professional.
· Submit a sworn statement regarding the handling of hazardous chemical substances.
· Develop and maintain a Chemical Accident Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Plan, complementary to the emergency plan when applicable.
· Maintain ongoing inventory management, updates, document control, periodic reviews, personnel training, drills, and coordination with authorities and the community. This is not a “one-time” compliance effort.
Compliance with the regulation fosters an internal culture of safety and prevention that protects employees and reduces the likelihood of workplace accidents or liability claims.
