Typically, when you change any materials that you use at your plant — and we mean any — the idea is to make processes better, easier, or both for employees. New paint, different cleaning compounds, a different chemical added to your actual production process, all of these need to be assessed to see how they impact your regulatory stipulations, your employees, and your waste services vendor. Here are some tips for conducting new product use review of any new material you bring into your plant.
First, if you want to use a new chemical, obtain its SDS (safety data sheet) from the supplier and review it carefully. Are there any requirements for reporting your usage to the EPA, OSHA, or any local, state or federal agency? Does the chemical present any hazards, such as fire or gas (in other words, a chemical reaction) when mixed with anything?
Now consider how the material may impact your plant. Will the material require special handling, such as equipment, gloves, or other personal protective equipment? Will you need to conduct training with your personnel? Will you need new signage and/or labels for containers? What about equipment maintenance? Will the new material affect your plant equipment itself?
Finally, think about how the new material will affect your waste. How will you manage any empty chemical containers? Will any of your waste be shipped offsite or end up in your wastewater or stormwater discharge? Will this new chemical affect your waste stream? Will it alter how your waste services provider treats and disposes of your waste? You want to avoid any off-spec loads.
Once you’ve made these determinations, test the new chemical in the lab before undergoing a large-scale implementation. Depending on the bench test and other considerations, you can then opt for either a small-batch production test or simply move into full-scale production.
This sounds like a lot of steps. But sometimes the review will be quick and easy, such as changing a cleaning product, and the chemical makeup for the new product is similar to the old one. However, if you’re making a more substantial alteration, then you’ll need to review the new product thoroughly. Be certain that you’ve addressed regulatory compliance, employee safety and plant maintenance, waste management, and any necessary testing. Only then you can introduce the new product with confidence, satisfied that you’ve taken essential precautions.
For more information, give us a call at 800-399-2783 or send an email to info@envremedies.com. We’d be happy to talk with you. At Environmental Remedies, we want to be your Go-To Company for Clean.