Safety and the protection of human health and the environment is a matter of fundamental importance. For this reason, company managements are required to define guidelines for Responsible Care that are oriented towards this paramount principle. In addition, measures and procedures shall be defined that enable implementation of these guidelines into everyday practice by the company and its employees, as well as periodic reviews of and, if appropriate, adjustment to new requirements.
The companies strengthen their employees’ awareness for safety and the environment. They increase employees’ sensitivity for possible environmental burdens as a result of products or plant operations.
The companies of the chemical industry respect the general public’s need for transparency in connection with products, processes and activities on the basis of a constructive approach and respond to this need in a constructive approach.
The companies of the chemical industry continuously improve the safety of their products: in the selection of raw materials, in production, storage, transportation, distribution, use, recycling and disposal. They take into account health, safety and environmental aspects both in the development of new products and product processes and in communication with buyers, processors and users.
In accordance with their product responsibility, the companies of the chemical industry provide information about rules for the safe transport, storage, safe use, recycling and disposal of their products. This applies, in particular, to buyers, processors and users.
The companies of the chemical industry work continuously on extending their knowledge of their products and production procedures, in particular with respect to their potential to impact on human health and the environment during all phases of the products’ lifecycle.
Irrespective of economic interests, the companies of the chemical industry shall limit the marketing of products or discontinue production, if the results of a scientific risk assessment call for such limitation or discontinuation as a precautionary measure to protect human health and the environment.
The companies of the chemical industry operate safe production plants. Should any risks endangering human health or the environment be recognisable, the companies shall take immediate action as required. In so doing they shall cooperate closely with the public agencies and inform the general public.
The companies of the chemical industry actively make available their knowledge and experience in the preparation of practical and effective laws, regulations and standards with the aim of ensuring the protection of human health and the environment.
The companies of the chemical industry maintain and encourage dialog with their stakeholders.
The companies of the chemical industry support the national Responsible Care program. In order to comply with RC principles, they provide sufficient resources to enable implementation in the company.