The proof-of-concept version of the IOMC Toolbox was launched at the 3rd International Conference on Chemicals Management in September 2012. Initially, it focused on 3 management schemes:
- A national management scheme for pesticides,
- An occupational health and safety system and
- A chemical accidents prevention, preparedness, and response system for major hazards.
New management schemes
In May 2015, a new version of the IOMC toolbox was launched with three new schemes :
- An industrial chemicals management system,
- A classification and labeling system and
- A system to support health authorities which have a role in the public health management of chemicals.
A seventh management scheme on Pollutant release and transfer registers is still being developped and should be published during summer 2015.
New functionalities
In addition, the new version of the IOMC Toolbox provides a set of interactive features allowing governments to use it as a platform for collaboration among ministries, agencies, and other stakeholders such as industry. Users can save their information, add comments, and share and discuss issues with colleagues and partners.