Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): Ensuring Workplace Safety with Up-to-Date SDSs

Understanding PAHs in the Chemical Industry

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of organic compounds commonly formed during industrial processes such as petroleum refining, chemical manufacturing, and metal processing. While these compounds serve various essential functions, they pose significant health and environmental risks. Linked to carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and toxic effects, PAHs demand stringent workplace safety protocols and effective risk management.

Regulatory Framework and Compliance

To address these risks, the European Union has introduced stringent controls on PAHs through Regulation (EU) 2025/0660, which mandates industries to limit exposure, monitor emissions, and implement comprehensive safety measures. Compliance is not optional—it’s a cornerstone of sustainable operations. Notably, under the REACH Regulation, the EU has recently restricted 18 PAHs in clay targets, effective from April 22, 2026.

Non-compliance with EU regulations can result in financial penalties, operational delays, and reputational harm—making regulatory compliance a key business priority.

The Critical Role of Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)

Accurate and up-to-date Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) are essential tools in managing PAH-related risks. These documents provide comprehensive information on chemical hazards and are vital to ensuring workplace safety across all levels of operation.

How SDSs Support PAH Management:

1. Hazard Identification – SDSs outline the health effects of PAH exposure, including respiratory damage, skin irritation, and carcinogenicity.
2. Safe Handling and Storage – Guidance on storage conditions, ventilation, and PPE(Personal Protective Equipment) requirements helps prevent harmful exposure.
3. Emergency Preparedness – Clear instructions for spill response, first-aid, and fire safety promote rapid incident resolution.
4. Regulatory Compliance – SDSs support adherence to EU regulations and international standards like GHS through correct classification and labelling.
5. Employee Training – SDSs serve as the backbone of chemical safety training, fostering a culture centred around workplace safety and awareness.

The Risks of Outdated SDSs

Using outdated or incomplete SDSs increases the likelihood of:

• Heightened exposure to hazardous chemicals due to missing or incorrect data.
• Regulatory compliance failures, risking legal and financial consequences.
• Inefficient emergency responses that could exacerbate chemical spills or health issues.
• Miscommunication of safety protocols, leading to unsafe work practices.

Best Practices for PAH Management

To effectively mitigate PAH-related hazards and maintain workplace safety, businesses should:

• Routinely update SDSs in line with the latest hazard information and legislative updates.
• Conduct ongoing risk assessments to evaluate exposure levels and control efficacy.
• Install engineering controls, such as fume hoods or closed-loop systems, to limit airborne PAHs.
• Provide and enforce the use of PPE for all personnel handling hazardous substances.
• Train employees regularly on safe chemical practices, storage protocols, and disposal procedures.

While PAHs are prevalent in many industrial applications, their potential risks demand diligent oversight. Keeping Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) current is a crucial step toward protecting employees and achieving full regulatory compliance under frameworks like Regulation (EU) 2025/0660 and REACH. By prioritising PAH risk management and following best practices, companies can uphold high standards of workplace safety, environmental responsibility, and operational excellence.

At Chemwatch, we empower organisations to manage chemical hazards efficiently with advanced tools for SDS management, regulatory tracking, and chemical risk assessment. Our platform offers real-time updates, comprehensive chemical databases, and intelligent substitution recommendations—keeping your business ahead of compliance obligations and safety standards.

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Sources

• https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/resources-and-publications/guidance-materials/health-monitoring-polycyclic-aromatic-hydrocarbons
• https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/system/files/documents/2002/health_monitoring_guidance_-_pahs.pdf
• https://www.aioh.org.au/product/pahs/
• https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/conditions/chemicals+and+contaminants/polycyclic+aromatic+hydrocarbons+pahs