Science that deals with the properties, composition, and structure of substances (elements and compounds), the reactions and transformations they undergo, and the energy released or absorbed during those processes.

Chemicals have beome a very intregal component of our lives, sustaining many of the activities, controlling and preventing diseases even improving growth and productivity. We must always remember however, that if not correctly handled the chemicals can also very quickly, reverse all of this good.

In today's workplace, people are exposed to a range of common chemicals everyday, somme of which are;

1. Solvents - cleaning, degreasing, mixing paints, diluting concentrated substances
2. Solid Chemicals which are reduced to powder or dust particles during manufacturing
3. Photocopying toners
4. Correction fluids
5. Lubricating - WD40, CRC etc
6. and many more examples exist

And it is not always the worker handling the chemicals that is the only person exposed. Often we are exposed through accident or by misuse. This may result in the air we breathe becoming polluted, the water we drink, or the food we eat.

The most essential step leading to the safe use of chemicals is to know their identity, understand their hazards to health and the environment and the means to control these hazards.

To provide this knowledge and manage the risks of chemicals in the workplace, an extensive system of legislations exists.

A hazardous substance can be defined as a chemical that can cause harm to health. In addition to this a potential hazard exists or arises when such chemicals are stored, handled used or disposed of.

Hazardous substances may include chemicals that cause;

Acute or immediate health problems
• i.e. caustic soda burning the skin

chronic or long term effects
• silicon dust causing cancer

The National Occupational Health and Safety Commission provides a list of "Designated Hazardous Substances". These substances contain only pure chemical substances. However most chemical products which we use in the workplace contain a mixture of different chemicals.

MINC Risk Services look forward to helping answer your questions and developing our business to the new highs in the area of Health & Safety.