Target group

Work environment specialists, representatives, persons responsible for chemical safety, biocide handlers and company managers.

Objectives

The aim of the training is to provide participants with the knowledge needed to ensure an accident-free working environment when handling chemicals and biocides.

Topics covered

1. Overview of legal regulations (REACH, CLP, Chemicals Act, Biocides Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act). State Supervision (competence of Labour Inspectorate, Health Board, Veterinary and Food Board, Rescue Board).

2. Definitions: Chemicals Act terms such as chemical, mixture, preparation, safety data sheet, pictogram, hazard and precautionary statements; definitions from the Biocides Regulation (BPR), e.g., biocide, microorganism, harmful organism, active substances, residues, approvals, usage areas (product types), microorganisms and their potential resistance to biocides (notification of resistance to the biocide holder – working conditions, risk assessment, including special requirements for hazardous enterprises).

3. Employer obligations for ensuring chemical safety (including the safe handling of biocides). Based on risk assessment (work environment risk assessment, emergency risk assessment, emergency response plan), safety instructions and personal protective equipment.

4. General chemical safety competence for employees (safety data sheets, training and instruction, competency certificates).

5. Specialised knowledge for biocide handlers (Pest Control Specialist Level 4; finding and using lists of approved or evaluated biocides and active substances in Estonia).

6. Employee responsibilities in handling chemicals and biocides (following instructions, including reading safety data sheets, safe working methods, use of protective equipment).

7. First aid in chemical accidents: Emergency response, evacuation, equipment, first-aid training, actions (employer and employee responsibilities).

8. Knowledge assessment.