Responsibility

Value Chain & Products

Chemical Management System

Since 2001 Evonik is using the in-house developed Chemical Management System for an assessment of its products exceeding 1 metric ton and placed on the market. The assessment is similar to a life-cycle-analysis, which in extreme cases, can result in restrictions on the use of Evonik’s products.

The Chemicals Management System (CMS) facilitates an evaluation of these substances in the form of lifecycle tracking. Very hazardous substances are also considered in smaller tonnage bands.

The system contributes to the preservation and continuing development of a future-oriented, sustainable product portfolio through identification of substance-related hazards, determination of possible exposure patterns and, finally, assessment of the possible risk, thus facilitating a timely response. In specific cases, this could lead to restrictions on the use or even a ban on the marketing of products by Evonik. The CMS also provides the basis for effective and technically sound communication about the impact of these substances, thus strengthening people’s trust in Evonik and our products.

Planning fundamentals for the risk analysis

A carefully conducted risk analysis involves the assessment, management, and communication of risk.

The risk assessment is based on precise knowledge of the intrinsic properties of the substances as well as the exposure pathways and the exposure level. While risk management entails the technical and organizational minimization of the risk identified, the risks are communicated through safety data sheets, technical data sheets, Safety Summaries, and so on.

As well as complying with legal provisions and voluntary obligations, each unit ensures that all products and product groups undergo a continuous lifecycle analysis. This includes the procurement of raw materials, production of own substances, handling and use, selling, residues in the environment, as well as disposal or recycling. The information gained in the risk assessment forms the basis for the risk analysis.

This overall risk analysis is a documented process and is carried out using the results of the exposure and hazard assessments and the resulting risk assessment as well as the risk management measures derived and the risk communication.

Our stated goal is to have performed risk assessments for all substances produced in quantities over 1 t/a, and placed on the market by 2020.

CMS objectives until 2020

  • Providing an risk assessment for > 99% of substances >1 t/a , which a brought on the market
  • Provision of corresponding GPS Safety Summaries on our own website and on the ICCA GPS Portal