What are Chemical Substances?
Chemical substances form the backbone of the modern world and encompass an enormous variety of materials that we encounter in our daily lives. They are the fundamental building blocks of everything around us – from the water we drink and the air we breathe to the materials that make up our homes, vehicles, and technologies.
Chemical substances can be naturally occurring or synthetically produced in laboratories and industries. They play a crucial role in a wide range of fields, including medicine, agriculture, manufacturing, energy production, and scientific research. Within the European Union, the use and regulation of chemicals are governed by key EU regulations such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) and CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging of substances and mixtures). These regulatory frameworks ensure that chemicals are handled, transported, and used in ways that minimize risks to human health and the environment.
However, it is important to remember that not all chemical substances are harmless. Some substances – such as diisocyanates and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) – can pose serious risks to both human health and the environment if not managed properly. Long-term exposure to hazardous chemicals can lead to environmental pollution, damage to ecosystems, and various health problems in humans, including respiratory issues, hormonal disruptions, and even cancer.
Therefore, it is of utmost importance to follow strict safety regulations, handling procedures, and transport rules when working with hazardous substances. By increasing awareness and taking responsibility for how we produce, use, and dispose of chemicals, we can contribute to a safer and more sustainable future – for both people and the planet.
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