Hazardous materials management explained simply

Published Jul 14, 2025

Yellow warning signs on black barrels in a row.

What is hazardous materials management?

Hazardous materials management covers all measures for handling hazardous substances safely. This includes identifying and classifying the substances, implementing protective measures, training employees, and regularly reviewing and updating safety guidelines.

Why is hazardous materials management important?

The overarching goal of hazardous materials management is to ensure the safe handling of hazardous substances – protecting both people and the environment. This includes, in particular:

Preventing workplace accidents: Clear safety measures help avoid accidents and occupational illnesses.
Safe working conditions: Hazardous materials management creates the framework for safe handling of dangerous or potentially harmful substances.

Which laws regulate hazardous materials management?

Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG)

The legal foundations of hazardous materials management are set out in §5 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Hazardous Substances Ordinance (GefStoffV)

This ordinance defines the measures employers must take to protect their employees when working with hazardous substances.

EU chemical law

The following EU regulations are particularly relevant when handling hazardous substances:

REACH Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006: Governs the registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals within the European Union.
CLP Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008: Provides the legal framework for classifying, labeling, and packaging chemicals in the EU.
Biocidal Products Regulation (EU) No. 528/2012: Regulates how biocidal products may be sold, supplied, and used throughout Europe.

What is the role of a hazardous materials officer?

Hazardous materials officers act as experts, advising companies on the safe handling of hazardous substances. They liaise with management, specialist departments, and employees. Their responsibilities include carrying out risk assessments, defining protective measures, and conducting employee training.

Gelbe Warnzeichen auf schwarzen Fässern in Reihe.

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To the solution

Which components are part of hazardous materials management?

A typical hazardous materials management framework includes::

Hazardous materials register

A register lists all hazardous substances in the company and helps keep them under control. The focus is on substances that impact health and the environment. According to §12 of the German Hazardous Substances Ordinance, the register must include:

The designation of the substance, as stated in the safety data sheet
Information on hazardous properties
The areas in which the substances are used
The quantities of substances in use within the company

Risk assessment

Employers must document the key hazards employees face when handling dangerous substances. The goal is to maximize workplace safety. Work with hazardous substances may only begin once the risk assessment has been fully completed.

Safety data sheets (SDS)

Safety data sheets provide essential information about each hazardous substance in the company. They also form the basis for creating the hazardous materials register. SDS typically include details on:

Substance labeling
Potential hazards
Correct handling and disposal
Required storage conditions
Transport options

Operating instructions

Operating instructions summarize the key information for each hazardous substance in use. At a maximum length of two pages, they are shorter than safety data sheets and cover practical questions such as:

What are the potential hazards?
Which protective equipment is required?
Who to contact in case of emergency, and what steps to take?

Protective equipment

Personal protective equipment safeguards employees against workplace accidents and occupational illnesses. It usually includes:

Protective gloves
Respiratory protection
Safety boots
Protective clothing
Eye protection

Storage and disposal of hazardous substances

Companies must provide proper storage facilities that protect employees’ health and safeguard the environment. Common solutions include:

Spill containment trays
Racks or cabinets for hazardous substances
Gas cylinder containers

Hazardous materials training

Employees must receive training on how to handle hazardous substances safely and in compliance with regulations.

What role does software play in hazardous materials management?

Software helps those responsible to organize and manage hazardous materials management efficiently. It provides an up-to-date overview of all hazardous substances at any time and supports compliance with legal requirements. In addition, operating instructions can be created with minimal effort, and labeling is simplified. Particularly valuable: when digital hazardous materials management is connected to the ERP system via an interface.