Do we need to register all products – even small quantities?

Short answer

Yes — as a general rule, all sources of risk used in the organisation should be included in your chemical inventory, even if the quantity is small. Small amounts can still pose risks, especially in cases of incorrect handling or incidents.

Why isn’t it enough to register only the “major” ones?

It is easy to assume that only large volumes involve risk. But in practice, even small quantities can:

• cause serious injuries in the event of spills or splashes

• pose health risks through inhalation (e.g. aerosols, vapours)

• be flammable or reactive

• contain substances with long-term effects (e.g. sensitising or carcinogenic substances)

So it is not only about quantity, but about properties and exposure.

What is most important to include?

For your chemical management process to work, it is especially important to register:

• sources of risk that are used regularly

• sources of risk handled by multiple people

• sources of risk with a high risk level

• sources of risk that can cause serious incidents even in small quantities

• sources of risk used in work tasks where exposure may occur

Are there any exceptions?

Some organisations choose to set practical limitations, for example for:

• products that are fully built-in and not handled

• products that are never used operationally

• materials that do not pose a risk under normal use

However, it is important that any limitations are made consciously and do not become a “blind spot” in the work.

A good rule of thumb

If the product:

• is used in the organisation

• may pose a risk when handled

• could cause harm in the event of an incident

…then it should normally be included in the chemical inventory.