Introduction

What is Responsible Care?

Responsible Care is an initiative of the chemical industry and adopted by chemical companies to improve continuously safety, health and environmental performance of their operations and products in manner responsible to the concerns of the public.


Where is Responsible Care?

It started in Canada in 1985 and has spread worldwide to some 66 countries, including Malaysia. Responsible Care is managed on a national basis by the chemical industry association in the countries concerned. The Chemical Industries Council of Malaysia (CICM) is the Malaysian steward for Responsible Care initiative of the global chemical industry.


When did Responsible Care started in Malaysia?

Responsible Care was launched by CICM on April 29, 1994. At the launch of Responsible Care, 33 chemical companies signed the Certificates of Guiding Principles to mark their companies' commitment to Responsible Care. To date, there are more than 130 chemical companies which are signatories to Responsible Care initiative in Malaysia.


Why Responsible Care?

Responsible Care was implemented to respond to public concerns about manufacture, transport, use and disposal of chemicals. Community awareness and involvement are also key features of the initiative.


Aim of Responsible Care

Responsible Care is aimed to improve the chemical industry's performance in safety, health and environment and also public perception of the chemical industry. It means that taking extra care of our operations, so that they do not have a bad impact on the safety and health of  employees and the public; and also to protect the environment. It also means being alert to new ways of operating that will improve the industry's performance in safety, health and environment and also being prepared to respond to public concerns about your operations with prompt action.


International Affiliation

CICM receives support from international chemical industry associations which generously shared their experiences and reports of their respective Responsible Care programmes. CICM is also a member of the Responsible Care Leadership Group of the International Council of Chemical Association (RCLG, ICCA); the governing body for Responsible Care implementation worldwide and also the Asia Pacific Responsible Care Organization (APRO).