Finding out whether the operations require a permit

In order to determine the scope of the facility's operations, draw up a list of chemicals and then calculate the ratio.

How to draw up the list of chemicals

Lists of chemicals are maintained in the KemiDigi system.

How to calculate the ratio

You can use the calculator available on KemiDigi to find out the scope of your operations.

Apply for a permit from Tukes for the operations well in advance before starting the construction. The target processing time for the permit of a new facility is 8 months.

If the operations do not exceed the permit limit but do exceed the limit for notifications, notify the local rescue department about the operations (in Finnish).

The list of chemicals

Find out the maximum amount of the chemical to be stored, its hazard class, category and statements. You can find the hazardous properties in section 2.1 of the safety data sheet. You can get the safety data sheet from the chemical supplier.

An example of section 2.1 of the safety data sheet:

2. Hazards identification

2.1. Classification of the substance or mixture 1272/2008 (CLP)
Flam. Liq. 1, H224
Asp. Tox. 1, H304
Skin Irrit. 2, H315
STOT SE 3, H336
Muta. 1B, H340
Carc. 1B, H350
Repr. 2, H361
Aquatic Chronic 2, H411

An image of the section of the safety data sheet showing the hazardous properties of the chemical.

In the example, ‘Flammable liquid’ describes the hazard class, the number 1 after it indicates the category and ‘H224’ indicates the hazard statement.

When you use a mixture you have created by mixing at least one substance classified as dangerous with other substances, you must find out the classification of the mixture. For example, a chemical diluted with water is one such mixture. You can get help from the chemical supplier or other experts in the classification of chemicals. The less dangerous a chemical is, the fewer obligations you have.

The maximum amount of stored chemicals is calculated based on the total capacity of the tanks, even if the tanks are never kept completely full. The chemicals in the process equipment must also be taken into account.

 

Principles of calculation and an example