Chemists tasked on careful handling, storage of flammable, inflammable substances

In an effort to avoid environmental hazards related to chemical incidents and explosion in the country, Chemists and chemical handlers in Nigeria have been urged ensure careful handling and storage of chemical substances.

The call was made at the 20th Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Workshop and Induction, organized by the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (ICCON) at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, Plateau State.

Registrar/CEO of ICCON, Chemist Wilford Jwalshik, expressed concern that often times; people confuse flammable and inflammable substances, which have led to chemical incidents.

He disclosed that the workshop was organized to address such issues as participants had the opportunity to learn and understand the processes of chemical storage, transportation and safely.

With the theme: 'Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals: Environmental Protection Public Health Enhancement', Chem. Jwalshik said the major challenge limiting the Institute is funding. 'Our challenges are primarily funding. We have many ideas and plans, but limited resources constrain us. Nonetheless, we remain committed to addressing critical environmental and safety issues, as well as build a safer, more informed society through training, awareness, and regulation'.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, said the event was designed to focus on enhancing chemical management practices to safeguard both the environment and public health.

Represented by Dr. Adeola Yusuf, Salako maintained that for Nigeria to improve its chemical management and reduce environmental hazards, Chemists and chemical handlers in the country must act responsibly, stressing that it is the surest way to ensure safety towards mitigating accidents.

'To improve chemical management and reduce environmental hazards in Nigeria, there the need for safer transportation of chemicals on our roads. Without knowledge, lives are at risk. A safe environment allows people to thrive', he said.

He however commended ICCON for its dedication in regulating and enforcing standard practice of the chemistry profession in Nigeria, saying the Global Harmonised System (GHS) is a vital tool in global chemical safety that ensures consistent dissemination of hazard information to chemical users, workers, and emergency responders as well as its facilitation of international trade by eliminating regulatory barriers.

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