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A structured strategy for assessing chemical risks, suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises.

A Balsat1, J de Graeve, P Mairiaux

  • 1School of Public Health, University of Liège, Sart Tilman (B23), 4000 Liège, Belgium.

The Annals of Occupational Hygiene
|October 8, 2003
PubMed
Summary

The Regetox network offers a structured approach for chemical risk assessment in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This method aids in identifying hazards and prioritizing risks, improving workplace safety.

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Area of Science:

  • Occupational Health and Safety
  • Chemical Risk Management
  • Environmental Health

Background:

  • Previous studies indicated a lack of structured chemical risk assessment methods in Belgian SMEs.
  • Prevention advisors relied on personal judgment and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for risk evaluation.
  • This highlights a gap in systematic approaches to managing chemical hazards in the workplace.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To introduce the Regetox network's global approach for assessing chemical health risks in companies.
  • To implement a two-step structured methodology for hazard identification and risk assessment.
  • To provide a practical framework for SMEs to manage chemical exposures effectively.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized the INRS 'ranking of potential risk' method for hazard identification and prioritization.

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  • Applied the COSHH Essentials method and EASE model for assessing chemical risk against occupational exposure limits.
  • Selected methods based on European hazard classifications (R-phrases) and accessible workplace data.

    • Main Results:

    • A feasibility study in two enterprises demonstrated the approach's utility.
    • The structured method proved useful for identifying hazards and setting risk priorities.
    • Identified limitations included inaccuracies in Safety Data Sheets and challenges in basic information collection.

    Conclusions:

    • The Regetox approach requires training for prevention advisors and employer/employee involvement.
    • Effective implementation necessitates a collaborative strategy for information gathering and risk management.
    • Regetox is a valuable tool for chemical risk assessment, particularly for SMEs, when properly supported.