South Korea announces the hazards and risks of 55 new chemical substances.

On September 26, 2023, the Ministry of Employment and Labor (MoEL) announced the names, hazards, and risks of 55 new chemical substances manufactured and imported in the third quarter of 2023, as well as measures to prevent workers’ health problems related to these substances. 

Manufacturers and importers of new chemicals must submit a Hazard and Risk Investigation Report to the Ministry of Employment and Labor (MoEL) 30 days before the date of manufacture or import of the new chemical, and the MoEL regularly announces the name, hazards, and risks of the new chemicals. 

20 of the 55 new chemicals announced this time, are classified as either acutely toxic, skin and eye irritating, skin sensitising, or hazardous to the aquatic environment including (S)-Nornicotine and diphenylphosphine. 

Accordingly, the Ministry of Employment and Labor notified employers who manufacture or import the substance of measures to prevent health problems among workers who handle harmful or dangerous chemicals. 

Choi Tae-ho, director of the Industrial Accident Prevention and Supervision Policy Bureau, said, "It should not stop at knowing the harmfulness and risks of new chemicals and measures to protect workers". He emphasized, "It is important for employers to install local exhaust systems and provide and wear personal protective equipment such as respiratory protection, protective gloves, and safety glasses, while implementing basic safety and health rules, such as thoroughly wearing personal protective equipment when handling chemicals."