Substitution of
    hazardous chemicals

Step 3: Investigate whether alternatives are available

You have now identified any risks associated with the product, process or service you are using or planning to use, and decided on an order of priority for action.

In this step, you should consider the following questions:
• Can you replace the product with another one that will
  fulfil the same function without unreasonable cost or
  inconvenience?
• Can you reduce the content of dangerous
  components to reduce the risks associated with the
  product?
• Is it possible to reduce or eliminate the use of the
  product?
• Can the production method or process be altered?

As a starting point, you should consider using a different chemical that entails less risk to health or the environment. However, another possibility is to use a different process that reduces or eliminates use of the dangerous chemical.

It is a good idea to seek out advice when you are identifying alternatives, for example from suppliers or trade associations. Ask about the risks their products represent for health and the environment, and how they need to be dealt with.

 

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   Example:
   Finding substitutes for TRI for
   degreasing

A number of users have switched to alternatives to the hazardous substance trichloroethene (TRI) for degreasing operations. The most appropriate alternative can found by considering what an enterprise really needs to achieve in each case:

• Is degreasing really necessary?
• If it is, can it be carried out in a closed
  system to minimise the risk to health
  and the environment?
• Or can it be carried out in some other
  way that gives an adequate result, for
  example hosing down with hot water?