Section 4:
Chemical safety in the workplace
Chemical safety practices are underdeveloped — and create silent risk
When it came to exposure to hazardous chemicals, our survey found that 42% of workers in the UK and Ireland handle chemicals in the workplace – specifically those that require a safety data sheet.
What is a safety data sheet?
A safety data sheet (SDS) is a document in a set format that is used to inform all employees and safety personnel about how hazardous chemical substances and mixtures of substances can be safely handled, used, stored, and disposed of.
Our survey found that while workers in the UK and in Ireland usually receive training on how to handle chemicals and find safety data sheets, with slightly higher levels in the UK than in Ireland.
84% of workers in the UK and Ireland had access to chemical risk assessments, with this access being more common in the UK.
However, it’s important to note that 36% of UK and Ireland workers say they don’t have a digital chemical management system, while 40% say they don’t have access to QR codes for accessing safety data sheets.
Perhaps most worryingly, 37% say their employer isn’t actively substituting hazardous chemicals.
Comparisons with North America
The results from our North American survey largely mirror the UK and Ireland, with 44% being exposed to hazardous chemicals. There were similar large gaps in digital access to safety documentation and substitution.
Summary of Section 4
- 42% of workers in the UK and Ireland are exposed to hazardous chemicals.
- 37% say their employer isn’t actively substituting hazardous chemicals.
- Overall, chemical safety questions are at lower levels among Irish workers compared to UK counterparts.