On the afternoon of November 5 in Ho Chi Minh City, the Department of Chemicals (Ministry of Industry and Trade) held a conference titled “Dissemination of National Technical Standards on Safety in Production, Business, Use, Storage, and Transportation of Hazardous Chemicals and the National Action Plan for the Prevention, Detection, Preparedness, and Response to Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Risks and Incidents.” The event attracted over 130 delegates from the Departments of Industry and Trade and chemical industry enterprises from Central and Southern Vietnam.
1. The Role of Chemicals in Industrial Development and Daily Life
In his opening remarks, Mr. Phung Manh Ngoc, Director of the Department of Chemicals, emphasized the essential role of the chemical industry in supporting various industries and societal development. Chemicals are widely used in food production, pharmaceuticals, material manufacturing, information technology, agriculture, and numerous other fields. However, he also highlighted the inherent risks that chemical production and usage can pose to human health and the environment, necessitating strict control measures. “To minimize chemical-related accidents, safety measures must be enhanced, and timely responses to any incidents must be ensured,” Mr. Ngoc stated.
2. New Technical Standards for Chemical Safety – Circular No. 19/2024/TT-BCT
At the conference, the Department of Chemicals presented Circular No. 19/2024/TT-BCT, issued on October 10, 2024, which revises and supplements the National Technical Standards on Safety in the Production, Business, Use, Storage, and Transportation of Hazardous Chemicals (QCVN 05A:2020/BCT). This circular updates various requirements and standards to meet practical demands and improve chemical safety management.
Circular No. 19/2024/TT-BCT mandates that enterprises improve the quality of chemical storage and transportation, comply with stringent regulations on the use of personal protective equipment, environmental protection, and effective incident management. Notably, companies are required to establish and maintain chemical safety management systems, perform periodic risk assessments, and ensure adherence to both national and international safety standards.
3. PMAC – A Notable Participant at the Conference
Among the participating enterprises, PMAC, a leading provider of specialized LAB distribution and services in Vietnam’s precious metals sector, shared valuable insights on its experience in implementing chemical safety standards. A representative from PMAC stated that the company is committed to complying with safety regulations and safeguarding employee health, while proactively updating new regulatory requirements to ensure the highest safety standards for its chemical products.
PMAC also discussed the challenges of transitioning to and applying new standards. The company emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure, safety equipment, and employee training for handling hazardous chemicals. PMAC acknowledged that, despite the high investment costs, compliance with safety standards not only protects employee health and safety but also fosters a sustainable work environment that meets the demands of domestic and international customers and partners.
4. The Department of Chemicals’ Commitment to Supporting Enterprises
To address the challenges faced by businesses, the Department of Chemicals pledged continued collaboration with industry and trade departments and related units to effectively disseminate and guide the implementation of standards. The department will review and improve chemical safety regulations and facilitate enterprise investments in infrastructure and workforce training.
The conference on chemical safety standards was a success, paving the way for improved chemical management and control in Vietnam. These new safety standards will contribute to a more sustainable development of the chemical industry. Enterprises like PMAC are committed to protecting public health and the environment while enhancing product quality. Collaboration between regulatory bodies and businesses is key to creating a safe and sustainable environment in the chemical industry.