The less the better

The following applies to the purchase of a hazardous substance: 

• First, check whether the substance is on the list of substances of very high concern (SVHC) or on the SZW list of carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic substances (CMR). 
• Check whether substitution with a less hazardous substance is possible. 
• Do not order more than strictly necessary. 
• Always order via the right channels. 
• In the case of small quantities, assess whether you can use stocks from other departments. 

If it turns out that a hazardous substance is on the SVHC or CMR list, you are obliged to replace it with less dangerous alternatives. If this is not possible, justify this and record it. 

SVHCs are the most harmful substances for humans and the environment. This includes carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic substances (CMR substances), substances that are (very) persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT or vPvB substances). 

The current SVHC list can be found via the RIVM search system.