Programme Area E – Strengthening of National Capabilities and Capacities for Management of Chemicals

Capacity building is a most critical requirement for effective chemical safety management, particularly in developing countries and countries with economies in transition. In this regard members of the Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC) can play a significant role in assisting these governments to improve the enforcement aspect of occupational safety and health policies in the production and use of chemicals in the workplace.

At the country level a variety of institutions and organizations contribute to the national occupational health and safety programme, which also incorporates risk reduction efforts with respect to chemicals in the workplace. Strengthening of national capabilities and capacities for management of chemicals should take into consideration the needs for building the relevant strengths of the institutions and organizations engaged in chemical risk reduction activities in the workplace.

Recommended action items:

• Identify the particular demands and needs with respect to institutions and organisations responsible for workplace-related activities concerning chemical safety, and direct the capacity-building efforts accordingly.
  
• National government occupational safety and health policies should contain specific sections/text on chemicals management, with a clear emphasis on preventive measures. Government legislation should require that workplace risk assessments and hazard prevention measures are carried out, based on the recognized hierarchy of prevention and control measures.
  
• Establish integrated programmes for health and safety professionals and public health practitioners with emphasis on identification, assessment and control of occupational chemical risk factors in all workplaces (industrial, rural, business and services).
  
• Promote exchange of information on successful experiences and projects related to chemical occupational safety and health.
  
• Enhance international cooperation programmes aiming especially the national capacity building in developing countries and countries with economies in transition.