Last updated: (February 2005)
Introduction
This Reference Note brings together a selection of some of the most important lists of hazardous and environmentally dangerous chemicals. In most cases these are linked to specific legislation and standards; as such they represent materials for which full legal compliance is particularly important. Further information and advice on any other chemicals of concern, including the environmental quality standards and limit values that may apply in any particular case, are available from the Envirowise Advice Line.
Background
All chemical substances need to be handled and stored in a safe and appropriate manner: care is always required to prevent pollution or other environmental damage. Certain chemicals, however, present a particularly high risk to health and the environment, often on the grounds of a combination of factors. Including: their toxicity; their long-term persistence in the environment; plus their ability to concentrate in biological tissues at potentially harmful levels.
It is anticipated that further groups of important chemicals will be added as appropriate over the course of time. Therefore, please go to NetRegs for a full and up-to-date list.