An environmental, health, safety and security management system for the chemical industry
Overview
Responsible Care® was launched in 1988 as the American Chemistry Council's (ACC) comprehensive Environmental, Health, Safety and Security (EHS&S) performance improvement initiative. It incorporates progressive principles and flexible management practices which allow members and partners to tailor the initiative to most effectively meet their needs.
The need for a structured process to implement and manage Responsible Care® management principles resulted in the Responsible Care Management System® (RCMS®) technical standard and RC14001® technical standard.
The International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA) has established a framework for chemical manufacturing companies to adopt and implement global Responsible Care® core principles. National chemical industry associations are working with the ICCA to ensure the continuous improvement of EHS&S in their countries.
European associations have pledged to adopt this framework and some have drafted a national specification already, and certain of these insist on their members seeking third-party verification of their management systems. Over the coming years it is expected that the remaining national associations in Europe and Asia will follow suit.
An RCMS® is based on benchmarked best practices of leading private sector companies, initiatives developed through the Global Environmental Management Initiative, International Standards Organization and other bodies, and requirements of national regulatory authorities.
Who is it relevant to?
RC14001:2005 incorporates all of the requirements of ISO 14001:2004 as well as the requirements of the Responsible Care® code. It is the ideal standard for chemical manufacturing companies who want a certified system based on an international standard that is accepted by all types of organizations worldwide.
RC14001® aims for continual improvement and demonstrated product stewardship. The third-party verification further provides credibility, ensuring continuing conformance to all requirements and expected EHS&S performance.
Next steps
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