Hazard Assessment and Characterization

In order to provide information on the HES aspects of our products, we

a). Collect data and other information related to a chemical's hazard,
b). Perform an initial hazard characterization,
c). Identify any additional information to be developed in order to conduct an evaluation of the product, and
d). Complete a detailed hazard characterization.

At Arkema, we use a structured, consistent system for gathering the health and environmental data needed to characterize the potential risks of the chemical substances used, processed, manufactured, stored, or distributed by our businesses. Our information and data management system assists each of our businesses in prioritizing products and materials for risk management decisions.

Hazard assessment is the initial element of the risk characterization process. The goal of our hazard assessment is to provide an up-to-date representation of the existing information on relevant health effects data, chemical and physical properties, as well as any potential environmental toxicity effects.

A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a written compilation of safety and hazard information concerning a hazardous chemical that is prepared in accordance with the US OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR §1910.1200(g). A label is written, printed, or graphic material displayed on or affixed to containers of hazardous chemicals. Each Arkema business unit that manufactures or distributes a chemical substance prepares a MSDS and label text for the product and is responsible for updating the MSDS and label in accordance with existing guidelines and regulatory requirements. Each Arkema facility maintains a repository of MSDSs for materials at its site, and a MSDS is provided to customers, distributors, medical personnel and others in accordance with the OSHA Standard and our company policy.

Arkema develops a hazard ranking for its commercial products. To do this, we evaluate a variety of parameters that help define a product's hazard, including its acute and chronic health effects, effects and fate of the product in the environment, and chemical reactivity. Materials with the highest overall scores are expected to pose the highest hazard potential. Based on the ranking, a material can be classified as having high, moderate, or low hazard potential.