Chemical packing is a vital process for many businesses in many industries. Put simply, chemical packers take bulk loads of chemicals and transfer them into different pack sizes. These are then used for various purposes by companies, such as customer redistribution, or internal usage. This is a necessary process in Australia; however, it does come with its risks and challenges. Understanding these challenges is crucial to being able to implement solutions at a business level for chemical packers around the country. From the importance of following Australian regulations to the challenges that the transportation of chemicals poses, this article will explore these issues and their solutions.
Regulations and Documentation
In Australia, there are complex regulations that govern the activities of chemical packers. It is essential that all businesses in this industry adhere to the regulations set out by the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme, which “regulates the importation and manufacture (introduction) of industrial chemicals in Australia”. This governmental body was established under the Industrial Chemicals Act 2019, and replaced the former scheme known as the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS).
Chemicals in Australia are regulated under both state or territory and national laws. At a national level, chemicals are regulated according to their use, and there are four different authorities that regulate each particular usage. If a type of chemical has multiple uses, it is essential that the requirements of each applicable national or state or territory regulatory body are followed.
This a no doubt a complex matter, which is why it is so necessary to keep on top of all the rules and regulations that apply to the chemical activities that are being carried out. In addition to this, proper documentation is also necessary to ensure that regulations are being met. It is necessary for businesses to be strict and stringent when it comes to regulations and documentation, as doing so maintains a strong professional reputation, and also prioritises safety at every step.
Hazardous Material Identification and Labelling
It is essential for safety that hazardous materials such as chemicals are accurately labelled and identified. These labels ensure that the handling, transportation, and storage of these chemicals are safe for everyone involved in these activities and processes. The Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme does not regulate the labelling of chemicals, but it is important to comply with any relevant standards, such as business product labelling requirements. It is also critical that all employees are trained and educated on labelling chemicals as labelling them is also crucial to making sure that safety is always the first priority.
Storage and Handling Considerations
Chemical packers also need to be aware of how to safely and properly store and handle chemicals. Proper storage and handling are crucial for preventing spills or other accidents involving hazardous chemicals. Some challenges faced by chemical packers include ensuring and maintaining proper ventilation, and segregating or keeping incompatible chemicals apart. Among the solutions to these challenges are the implementation of stringent storage practices for chemicals, including but not limited to, adequate ventilation and readily available safety equipment. In addition, temperature control and secure containers also help to mitigate the risks and challenges of storing and handling chemicals.
Safe and Secure Transportation
The safe and secure transportation of chemicals does bring another set of challenges. Ways of mitigating the risks of transportation are as varied as the different challenges themselves. Rigorous planning, including hazard assessments, is essential for safety, as is ensuring the accurate labelling and packaging of chemicals.
Further, it is also necessary to consult the Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road & Rail (ADG Code) as this sets out the requirements for transporting dangerous goods like chemicals by road or rail. For any operational advice, the relevant competent authority in your state or territory must be consulted.
When it comes to safe transport, it is critical to choose carriers who are experienced in the transportation of chemicals. Plus, staying in regular contact with these transport partners is another important component of proper chemical transportation. In addition, tracking systems and planning for any contingencies can also help to mitigate the risks of chemical transportation. Once again, safety and security should be at the forefront of transport activities at all times.
Do You Need Chemical Packing in Melbourne?
When it comes to chemical packing services, it is essential to contact the experts. That’s where Melbourne Chemical Packers comes in. As a professional chemical packaging company, we aim to provide holistic solutions to fulfil any chemical processing or packing requirements. Whether your business needs one off bulk order, or a regular order every month, we are here to help with all your industrial chemical packaging needs.
If your business needs these services, then call us at 03 8316 2019, or send us a quote via our website contact form today, and we will be happy to get back to you.