Feedback sought on draft National Code of Practice for Chemicals of Security Concern

Australian governments have decided to pursue a voluntary code of practice for businesses that manage, handle or use products containing 11 chemicals identified as having the potential to be used to make homemade explosives.

The code, which seeks to make the chemicals more secure and ensure the safety of the community, will affect importers, manufacturers, transporters, universities, farmers, hardware stores, hairdressers and any other businesses or industry sectors that manage, handle or use any of these chemicals.

Governments do not want these chemicals getting into the wrong hands and Australian businesses play a critical role in achieving that by managing security risks as part of good business practice.

The Attorney-General’s department is seeking feedback on the draft code of practice. This feedback will shape the final version of the code and ensure that it can be easily understood and effectively used by businesses.

To download the draft code of practice and for details on how to submit feedback, visit www.chemicalsecurity.gov.au/PublicConsultation.

The consultation closes on 1 March 2013.