Chemical Substance Management
Because chemicals are frequently handled in the SMM Group, we have established a chemical substance management system
within the environmental management system (EMS) at all business sites under divisional jurisdiction. For example, when a business
site intends to handle a new chemical, it conducts a preliminary study that covers hazard statements, laws and regulations,
and other applicable information, and deliberates in a meeting at the business site before deciding whether to adopt the handling
of said chemical. In addition, the business divisions and Safety & Environment Control Department cooperate with requests for preliminary
consultation and verification from the business site.
Further, we also provide information on safe handling for all chemicals transferred or provided to customers or other business
sites in the SMM Group using safety data sheets (SDS)1 which conform to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and
Labelling of Chemicals (GHS),2 regardless of whether or not we are legally obligated to do so.
When developing new materials, we strive to develop materials that customers can use safely and with peace of mind. We review
development themes taking into account the toxicity of contained substances, including as pertains to domestic and international
regulations for final products as well as the environmental impact of production processes.
Products for export to the EU are also subject to the RoHS Directive and the REACH Regulation,3 enacted with the aim of protecting
human health and the environment, and we address these accordingly.
- 1.1. Safety data sheet (SDS): A document listing information on a chemical, including the chemical substance, the product name, the supplier, hazards, safety precautions and emergency procedures
- 2.The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS): A system for classifying chemicals based on the type and degree of hazards and toxicity they pose, chemical labeling, and safety data sheet provision in accordance with a set of internationally-agreed upon rules
- 3.REACH Regulation: The Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. An EU regulation concerning the registration, evaluation, approval, and limiting of chemical substances
