Introduction
Managing chemicals in a manufacturing environment is a complex challenge. It requires not only having the right information available, but also ensuring that it is understood and put into practice. For Pipelife, the Nordic region’s largest manufacturer of plastic piping systems, this is part of everyday operations. With production based on materials such as PVC, PE and PP, there are high demands on safety, structure and regulatory compliance.
But how do you bring structure to something as dynamic and ever-changing as chemical management? For Pipelife, the answer has been a long-standing partnership with Intersolia and the digital chemical management software iChemistry – a partnership that has now lasted for more than 20 years.
From Manual Processes to Systematic Control
Before implementing iChemistry, Pipelife faced a situation where safety data sheets (SDSs) were scattered across departments, making them difficult to keep up to date and hard to manage. Those responsible for making decisions – whether related to occupational health and safety, purchasing or risk assessment – lacked a clear basis for informed decision-making. It was also challenging to know whether the correct classifications were in place and how new substances should be managed in line with regulatory requirements.
This is a common example of the uncertainty many companies face – not because they lack ambition when it comes to safety and sustainability, but because their tools are not up to the task.
With iChemistry, Pipelife gained structure and control. All chemicals are now managed in one system, with up-to-date SDSs linked to the relevant departments. Processes are clearer, responsibilities are defined, and decisions can be made based on accurate and up-to-date information.
Traffic Lights – Quick and Clear Support for Better Decisions
One feature in iChemistry that has made a significant difference for Pipelife is the traffic light function. This colour-coded risk indicator automatically assigns each chemical a green, yellow or red light based on its health and environmental hazards, as well as relevant regulatory requirements.
It may sound simple – but that is precisely the point. The traffic lights translate complex chemical information into something that can be used immediately, even by people without specialist knowledge of chemicals.
At Pipelife, the traffic lights are actively used to support decisions related to purchasing, risk assessments and communication between departments.
This means that a chemical with a red light can quickly be flagged for further investigation – can it be substituted? Is specific personal protective equipment required? Are there other regulations that need to be considered?
The information is not only used by SHE Coordinator Yvette Lennartsson. Teams across purchasing and production, and even management, can quickly interpret risk levels thanks to the traffic lights:
“If the traffic light is anything other than green, it makes you pay closer attention to the risks and health hazards, as well as the personal protective equipment that should be used.”
This highlights an important point: chemical management is no longer an isolated responsibility for a select few. With the right tools, it can become an integral part of how the entire organisation works.
iChemistry
Ta kontroll med vår trafikljusfunktion
Du behöver inte vara expert för att förstå hur farlig en kemikalie är – se det direkt med hjälp av trafikljusen. Era produkter tilldelas en färg baserat på deras egenskaper och kan snabbt ge er en fingervisning om produktens farlighet.
Time Savings, Clearer Responsibilities and Better Regulatory Compliance
Since implementing iChemistry, Pipelife has seen several tangible results. Firstly, the company has gained better control over its chemicals – not only in terms of documentation, but also through improved oversight and risk management.
Secondly, occupational health and safety practices have been strengthened. Decisions regarding personal protective equipment, handling and substitution are now supported by data. The organisation has also improved its ability to meet regulatory requirements.
Thirdly, the partnership with Intersolia has provided reassurance. Pipelife describes a partnership where advice is readily available, customer support is responsive and their needs are genuinely taken seriously. The long-standing relationship – spanning more than two decades – also reflects the trust that has been built over time.
A Software That Creates Confidence and Trust in the Future
Pipelife is a clear example of how the right tools can transform chemical management from something complex and reactive into a proactive and strategic process.
With iChemistry, they have built a structure that not only meets today’s requirements but also prepares them for the future. And with the traffic light function, they have made chemical risks easier to understand – across the entire organisation.
Ready for Better Chemical Management Software?
Book a demo with one of our experts and discover how we can tailor a sustainable solution to your business. We make switching chemical management software simple!
