Chemical risk assessment: what is it – and when do you need one?

Cleaning agents, paint, glue, oils, solvents – many workplaces use chemical products every day. Some of them can cause anything from skin irritation and allergies to serious damage to the lungs and nervous system. That is why the risk must be assessed in a chemical risk assessment, known in Denmark as a chemical APV.

What is a chemical risk assessment?

A chemical APV (workplace assessment) is the company’s assessment of the risk from the chemical substances and materials in use. Among other things, it describes:

• the hazardous properties of the substances
• who is exposed, and how – for example by inhalation or skin contact
• quantities and how often the substances are used
• the preventive measures, such as substitution, ventilation and protective equipment

When is it required?

The rules are mainly in the Danish Working Environment Authority’s executive order on work with substances and materials (chemical agents). Where there is a risk from hazardous substances, the company must carry out a chemical APV – and update it when new substances or work processes are introduced.

Prevent in the right order

1. Replace hazardous substances with less hazardous ones where possible.
2. Limit exposure with technical solutions such as closed processes and extraction.
3. Organise the work so as few people as possible are exposed, for as short a time as possible.
4. Use protective equipment – gloves, glasses and respiratory protection – when exposure cannot be avoided in other ways.

Instructing employees

Employees must know the risks and how to work safely. A course provides the general knowledge of hazard labelling, safety data sheets and prevention. Instruction in the specific substances, work processes and protective equipment at your workplace must still take place locally.