The most effective method to eliminate or reduce potential health and safety risks in the workplace is to eliminate hazards at the source.  This eliminates the need for engineering, administrative or workplace controls and for personal protective equipment.  Additionally, many required environmental reports and permits can be eliminated or simplified by making smart choices in material selection.  This reduces environmental compliance costs.  Establishing a chemical management system that is effective in meeting production needs and minimizing chemical hazards, however, can seem overly time consuming and costly to small businesses with limited resources. See Safer Chemicals Graphic (Reference:  https://www.osha.gov/dsg/safer_chemicals/basics.html)

To assist OSHA has updated their website to provide a Toolkit for Employers and Workers to Transition to Safer Chemicals.  The toolkit includes a basic framework for starting a program.  Additionally, the site includes statistical information about the benefits of such programs, success stories and more.  Links to many frameworks and methodologies are provided.  This tool may be useful to facilities that do not already have an effective program in place for informed substitution and alternatives assessment or for companies looking to improve their program.

SMG helps clients comply with rigorous state and federal environmental regulations.  If your company is considering a material substitution, we can help evaluate the effect the substitutions may have on environmental permitting and reporting.  For assistance or for more information, feel welcome to contact me at 502-587-6482 x 211.