Environment

Advanced Evaluation of Chemical Risks

Using its unique safety verification system to achieve the appropriate management of chemicals

Konica Minolta has established the Safety Verification System for the advanced investigation of risk management relate to the adoption of new chemicals. When the Group cannot avoid using a chemical that poses a high degree of risk, the safety screening meeting is convened to establish rigorous requirements of control.
In fiscal 2007, Konica Minolta revised the evaluation scheme of the system so that it now includes the exposure format in use, in addition to the specific hazards of the chemical substance and the amount of chemical used. This approach was further reinforced in fiscal 2008. The exposure risk was classified into four categories, ranging from the case that is used under rigorous safety controls (at production centers and the like) to the case where an unspecified number of people is using the chemicals and safety controls cannot be guaranteed. The safety requirements for chemicals were re-established accordingly.
Furthermore, in fiscal 2008, Konica Minolta developed an assessment tool that enables autonomous risk management to be performed for each production process. The system was revised to make it possible to reevaluate the risk of a given chemical after it has been introduced into a process, according to changes in the amounts used and the conditions of use.
These revisions have enabled greater rational risk assessment that considers product safety, environmental protection, and occupational safety.

Establishing Systems for Chemical Management

Management systems for properly controlling chemical substances

The regulations governing chemicals around the world are being strengthened including the European REACH regulations*1. In order to respond promptly and effectively to the requirements of these regulations, Konica Minolta has established a system for managing chemical data and is working to put the means for full compliance into place.
In addition, Konica Minolta introduced a system in fiscal 2007 for central management of the composition and hazards of chemicals (such as solvents used in manufacturing) and chemical products (such as toner and ink). The system also organizes the MSDS (material safety data sheets). The Group is revising its environmental labeling and MSDS, starting with those countries that introduce GHS*2 legislation.
In preparation for tighter regulation of products such as copiers and printers, Konica Minolta is updating its system for confirming controls on harmful substances in products. The revised system is scheduled to start operation in the second half of fiscal 2009.

*1

REACH regulations: The EU consolidated its earlier regulations concerning chemical substances and in June 2007, enacted new regulations for the registration, evaluation, authorization and restriction of chemicals.

*2

GHS: Globally Harmonized System for the classification and labeling of chemicals