HAZARDOUS substances are any substances whether liquid, solid or
gaseous or any organism which is injurious to human health or the
environment.
These include acids, heavy metals including mercury, lead and cadmium,
pesticides as well as petroleum products.
They can cause skin irritation or corrosion, serious eye damage, cancer,
and breathing problems. They can affect reproductive health and can
result in respiratory or skin sensitisation to human beings.
Hazardous substances are harmful to the aquatic environment, depletes
the ozone layer and they cause bioaccumulation of potential-toxic
substances in organisms.
The trade in hazardous substances has become a pervasive issue in
Zimbabwe. With the rapid growth of industries such as manufacturing,
construction, and agriculture, the demand for these substances has
escalated.
Companies, driven by profit, often overlook the potential risks and
consequences associated with their products. As a result, hazardous
substances find their way into the hands of inappropriate suppliers,
leading to devastating health and environmental outcomes. The impact
of selling hazardous substances extends beyond human health.
The promulgation of the Statutory Instrument 268 of 2018 governs the
trade in hazardous substances. It regulates on the comprehensive
product labelling, proper handling and storage guidelines, and penalties
for non-compliance.
Selling of all hazardous substances should be done under a licence
issued by Environmental Management Agency (EMA). The application
process involves the completion of an application form, which captures
details of the principal suppliers of the hazardous substances, details of
the importer or manufacturer, user and keeper, material safety data
sheet, and in the case of a company, company registration documents.
Registering with the Environmental Management Agency enables easy
monitoring for the safety of the public and the environment. Registration
can be done at EMA offices in all the districts and provinces of
Zimbabwe. This licence runs for a year (12 months) from the date of
issue for all local users and transporters.
These environmental tips and facts are brought to you by the
Environmental Management Agency, Mashonaland West Province. For
further information visit our Offices in all the Districts of the province.
You can also contact us on 08080028, like us on Facebook page
Environmental Management Agency or visit our website
www.ema.co.zw. We are ready to listen.
