What are chemicals in the workplace and what does the law say?
Depending on the workplace, most chemicals used are hazardous in some form.  They are generally termed Hazardous Substances or Dangerous Goods but many substances can be both. Typically, a Hazardous Substance will present short term or long term effects (chronic) whereas Dangerous Goods will present an immediate danger to life and health, such as poisoning, explosions, corrosion, and fires (Acute).

Many Hazardous Substance incidents are from inhalation or ingestion, but substances may also enter the body through skin pores and other means. Because of the wide ranging effects, there are two sets of legislation that apply when using chemicals. One deals with Hazardous Substances and the other deals with Dangerous Goods.  

If you have either or both types of substances, the law expects you to identify the risks and control them. The first and best measure of control is to ask whether you need that particular chemical or whether there is one on the market less hazardous or dangerous you could substitute it with. Also, you need to assess and reduce the amount of chemicals you store at your workplace. Most workplaces carry more than they need. 

How do I know if I have Hazardous Substances or Dangerous Goods at my workplace?
If you work with chemicals, you should be able to determine if they are hazardous or dangerous as the information should be easily identified on the container label or the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for that product. Your supplier can provide you with an MSDS.

Can I get help? 
Yes. You can download information from your regulatory authority by clicking on the links below, or you could engage an external consultant from our Business Directory or an Occupational Hygienist specialising in workplace chemicals to help ensure a controlled environment. Also, you might need substances training and chemical/dangerous goods storage products and emergency spill gear.        

 Is there any free guidance material I can read on working with chemicals?

Click on the link below for useful information?

Australian Capital Territory
www.ors.act.gov.au

Can I get help? 
Yes. It could be cheaper in the long term. It may be best to engage your local OHS consultant or an Occupational Hygienist specialising in workplace chemicals to provide you with the right advice so you can get it right first time. You may also require substances training and chemical/dangerous goods storage products or and emergency spills gear. 

Is there any free guidance material I can read on Chemicals?

Click on the link below for useful information?
 

Australian Capital Territory
Dangerous Substances

New South Wales
Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods
Code of Practice for the Control of Workplace Hazardous Substances

Northern Territory
Dangerous Goods
Hazardous Substances

Queensland
Responsibilities for dangerous goods
Hazardous substances advisory standard 2003 

South Australia
Responsible use of chemicals
Chemicals Use
Chemical Management 

Tasmania
Dangerous Goods

Victoria
A Step by Step Guide for Managing Chemicals in the Workplace

Western Australia
Hazardous Substances