Handling and Management of Chemicals in SMEs

A great variety of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) around the world are using chemicals in their daily activities. These can include from the production of chemical products per se, or the use of chemical substances for the delivery of specific services to their customers. In any case, the correct handling, storage, use and management in general of these substances are the only way to eliminate any potential hazards that may arise due to their improper use. These possible hazards can have an impact on the employee, the company itself, the customer and/or even the environment. This paper provides a summary of the most important aspects that any SME, irrelevant to its size, should be taking into consideration and following in their daily practice. Specific information on the REACH and CLP regulations are highlighted, next to the relevant Directives of the European Commission. In addition, there is a thorough summary of the classification of the chemical substances the majority of the company are producing, using or just storing in their premises.