Ministry releases Q2 hazard and risk data on newly manufactured or imported chemicals

Workplaces notified to install ventilation systems, provide protective gear

Ministry of Employment and Labor [Photo by Kim Yong-hun]
Ministry of Employment and Labor [Photo by Kim Yong-hun]

The Ministry of Employment and Labor disclosed Tuesday the names, hazards, risks and required safety measures for 74 new chemicals manufactured or imported during the second quarter of this year.

Of the 74 substances, 43 were found to pose hazards or risks that could affect workers' health and safety, including acute toxicity, skin corrosion, serious eye damage, flammable solids and water-reactive materials. Among notable examples, 1,4-Dioxan-2-one was found to carry repeated-exposure specific target organ toxicity and eye irritation, while 1,2-Disilylethane was confirmed to have inhalation and oral acute toxicity as well as respiratory irritation.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, businesses seeking to manufacture or import new chemicals must submit a hazard and risk assessment report to the ministry at least 30 days before doing so — or 14 days in advance for quantities under one metric ton per year. The ministry and the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency review the reports, notify employers of measures required to protect workers' health, and publicly disclose the names and hazard information of the substances.

The ministry notified employers manufacturing or importing the chemicals covered in this round to implement safety measures, including providing workers with respiratory protection, protective gloves and safety goggles, and installing local exhaust ventilation systems. Regional labor offices plan to inspect and monitor compliance with those measures.

"Because chemicals are used broadly across industrial sites, failing to adequately manage their hazards and risks can lead to serious accidents and casualties," said Oh Yeong-min, director general of the ministry's Occupational Safety and Health Inspection Bureau. "Employers should verify in advance the risks of all chemicals they handle, including new ones, and thoroughly carry out the necessary safety and health measures — such as worker education and the provision of protective equipment."


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