Hazardous chemicals register template
A hazardous chemicals register is a list of every hazardous chemical used, handled or stored at a workplace, kept together with the current safety data sheet (SDS) for each one. Under the WHS Regulations a PCBU must prepare it, keep it at the workplace, keep it up to date and make it readily accessible to workers who use, handle or store the chemicals and anyone else likely to be affected (reg 346). In Victoria the equivalent is an employer's register of hazardous substances under the OHS Regulations 2017.
Hazardous chemicals register template
Company: ____________
Site: ____________
Date: ____________
Register details
| Workplace or site: ____________ | N/A · Action | |
| Register kept at (location): ____________ | N/A · Action | |
| Person responsible for the register: ____________ | N/A · Action | |
| Last checked and updated: ____________ | N/A · Action |
Hazardous chemicals on site
| Product name | Supplier / manufacturer | SDS date | Hazard (from SDS) | Max quantity on site | Where stored | Used for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Keeping the register right
| A current SDS is held for every chemical on the list, obtained from the manufacturer, importer or supplier (reg 344) | N/A · Action | |
| SDSs are less than 5 years old; any older one has been replaced with the current version | N/A · Action | |
| The register and SDSs are where workers using the chemicals can get to them quickly, on paper or on a device that works on site | N/A · Action | |
| New chemicals are added before they are first used; removed chemicals are taken off the list | N/A · Action | |
| Containers are labelled and match the product names on the register | N/A · Action | |
| Each chemical's risks have been assessed and controlled (use the hazardous chemical risk assessment form) | N/A · Action |
Completed by: ____________________
Signature: ____________________
swmspack.com · Free printable checklist. Not legal advice; adapt to your site.
Common questions
▸Is a hazardous chemicals register required by law?
Yes, where hazardous chemicals are used, handled or stored at the workplace. Under the WHS Regulations (reg 346) the register lists those chemicals and holds the current SDS for each, is kept at the workplace, kept up to date, and is readily accessible to the workers involved and anyone else likely to be affected. Chemicals in transit and consumer products that do not need an SDS are exempt.
▸What must the register contain?
At minimum a list of the hazardous chemicals used, handled or stored, and the current safety data sheet for each (reg 346). The extra columns on this template, such as quantity and storage location, are not required by the regulation but make the register useful in an emergency.
▸What about Victoria?
Victoria uses the OHS Regulations 2017. An employer must prepare and maintain a register of all hazardous substances supplied to the workplace, with a list of the product identifiers and a copy of the SDS for each, readily accessible to any employee who may be exposed.
▸Is the register the same as a manifest?
No. A manifest is a separate document needed only where large quantities of certain hazardous chemicals are stored, and the rules differ between states. Every workplace with hazardous chemicals needs the register.
Chemical work on a construction site may also be high risk construction work that needs a SWMS.
A checklist confirms controls are in place; a SWMS is the document the law requires before high risk construction work starts. Generate a site-specific one for your trade.