Education/training of the public and workers

Education/training of the public and workers includes informing and educating the public and workers about the hazards and risks of chemicals. It builds on and supports the sub-element Public awareness raising.

The information on hazards and risks of chemicals and their risk management options can be communicated through websites, guidelines, and other types of information material to sensitize the public and workers about the need of a management system for industrial chemicals and to motivate them to use the information to protect themselves from harmful impacts of chemicals. To increase understanding of potential problems with chemicals, the content of chemicals regulations and the means to improve the safe handling of chemicals could be integrated in programs for primary, secondary and tertiary education and in training programs for workers. This could include the development of special training materials and organizing targeted workshops and training courses for selected stakeholders.

The selection of chemicals for Education/training of the public and workers depends on the situation of the country and the already existing level of awareness, education and training.

Countries should also consider whether there is a wider need for training of government officials and others involved in chemical management activities in all aspects of the scheme (e.g. in risk assessment, risk management, risk communication, public outreach etc.).