Penchom Saetang

Expert Highlights Vision for Safer Chemical Management at Asian Chemicals Forum 2023

At the recent Asian Chemicals Forum 2023, industry leaders discussed the future of chemical safety and management, with a focus on capacity building and regulatory frameworks to protect health and the environment in Asia.

Panel Discussion

Ms Saetang expressed her satisfaction with the panel discussion at the ACF 2023, noting the important visions discussed at the Forum. She highlighted the importance of addressing issues related to chemicals and the discussions that ensued, particularly importance of building the capacity of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to comply with regulations. Legal instruments such as the PRTR, the precautionary principle and public participation were highlighted as critical to building a safer chemical society.

Future of the Asian Chemical Forum

Ms Saetang highlighted the need for broader participation, particularly in engaging new groups such as occupational health professionals, medical doctors, and the wider community to address the risks associated with the use of chemicals. She emphasised the need for forums such as the ACF to provide space for the exchange of views, concerns, and to effectively engage civil society, the public health sector, and other relevant stakeholders.

Chemical Inventory and Regulations in Thailan

Ms Saetang acknowledged that while there is an existing inventory in Thailand, it is not comprehensive or complete. The lack of a centralised database of chemicals is a major drawback and a shortcoming in the enforcement of chemicals regulations in Thailand. She highlighted that the country does not meet the requirements of various international conventions, such as the Stockholm Convention, despite being a party these agreements. Ms Saetang stressed the need for Thai regulatory agencies to align more closely with international standards and conventions to improve chemical safety in the country.

Thai-REACH and Future Regulations

Ms Saetang expressed a hope for a Thai equivalent to the REACH Regulation. She highlighted the unfortunate rejection of the initial framework proposed by the public health ministries in 2015. Ms Saetang noted that while a Thai REACH-like regulation has not been enacted, there are elements similar to REACH in the current Direct Chemical Act. She expressed the hope that even if a Thai REACH does not materialise, REACH-like regulations will be integrated into the new Chemical Act in the future.

Challenges in Harmonising Sustainable Development Elements

Ms Saetang emphasised the fundamental importance of government encouragement and acceptance of public participation at various levels to establish criteria and measures to improve chemical safety in Thailand. Drawing on her more than 20 years of experience in the environmental sector, Ms Saetang highlighted the significant and urgent need of public participation and access to information through establishing PRTR law in the country. She stressed that these aspects are fundamental to promoting chemical safety and achieving sustainable development and expressed a strong hope for an informed and sustainable future, emphasising the need to address these fundamental criteria.

Conclusion

In summary, the interview with Ms Penchom Saetang highlighted the need for a more robust chemical inventory, improved regulations in line with international standards, and greater public participation and access to information to ensure a safer and more sustainable future for chemicals management in Thailand. These discussions and observations indicate a recognition of gaps and a desire to address them for a safer chemical environment in the country.