Safety
at our sites around the world, which number more than 200, is an important
success factor. Wherever possible, hazards are avoided from the outset.
By
definition, chemical manufacturing involves use of hazardous substances.
Many substances which are converted by means of chemical reactions
into products carry with them potential risk: they can be flammable,
explosive, damaging to the environment and toxic. These properties
are naturally undesirable but frequently necessary as often only
due to them does a chemical reaction occur at all. A systematic
concept governing procedure is vital. Our safety concept comprises
four fundamental components:
1st
component:
Wherever possible, safety is "built in" to the processes.
This begins with the selection of a suitable method of synthesis.
We design processes that keep quantities of hazardous substances
in the plants to a minimum. Since, however, even the best planning
cannot eliminate errors completely, we organize our processes and
plants in such a way that one error alone cannot put man or the
environment at risk. Knowledge gained from our own production plants
and the exchange of experience with specialists outside the company
is put into practice to ensure the standard of safety technology
is constantly improved. 
2nd
component:
Even the best technology cannot do without first-class thinkers
and practicians on site. We ensure that our staff are fully qualified
to act safely. They are continually trained in the safe handling
of plant and products - at all production sites around the world.
We provide easy-to-understand instructions both for normal operation
and irregularities.
3rd
component:
Our facilities are continuously monitored by our plant personnel
and safety experts. Specialists in occupational safety, health care,
fire prevention and technical inspection check that legal stipulations
and Bayer's own regulations are fully complied with. Recognized
experts from the Technical Inspection Department regularly inspect
the plants. Although these are Bayer employees, they work outside
of the company's authority and are solely responsible to the legislature.
This department has existed for more than 100 years.
4th
component:
In spite of all precautions we still have to be prepared for possible
disturbances in operation. Our emergency response plans regulate
procedures for ensuring the protection of man and the environment
and for keeping the local community well informed.
The
larger production sites have their own medical teams, rescue vehicles
and fire departments specially trained for our needs. At the smaller
sites we have concluded agreements with local fire departments,
physicians and hospitals.
|
