6 Tips for Choosing a Chemical Risk Management Consultancy

In today’s industrial and business environment, chemical risk management has become a priority for companies of all sizes and sectors. Organizations that deal directly or indirectly with chemicals, whether in manufacturing, storage, transportation, or use, must comply with strict regulations and ensure the health and safety of their employees, the community, and the environment.

However, implementing effective chemical risk management practices is not always simple. It requires technical knowledge, constant updating on legislation, and the ability to anticipate and control potential hazards. For this reason, many companies choose to hire specialized consultancies that can provide tailored guidance and structured solutions.

The challenge, however, lies in choosing the right consultancy. Not all providers offer the same level of expertise, and the decision should go beyond cost considerations. The consultancy you select will play a strategic role in the sustainability of your operations and in protecting your company’s reputation. To help with this process, here are six essential tips for choosing a chemical risk management consultancy.

1. Check the Consultancy’s Experience and Technical Expertise

The first factor to analyze is the consultancy’s background and professional qualifications. Chemical risk management requires a deep understanding of industrial processes, toxicology, occupational safety, and applicable legislation.

Look for companies that:

• Have professionals with specific training in chemical safety, occupational hygiene, and environmental management.
• Can demonstrate proven experience in projects similar to your company’s activities.
• Keep up with updates to standards and environmental regulations.
• A consultancy with consolidated experience will not only identify risks but also propose practical and innovative solutions, adapted to your reality.

2. Analyze Knowledge of Standards and Legislation

Chemical risk management is highly regulated. The consultancy you choose should have up-to-date and in-depth knowledge of all relevant local, national, and international regulations. This includes standards from agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the US, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in the EU, and other country-specific agencies. In Brazil, for example, companies must comply with occupational health and safety standards (NRs), ABNT technical standards, and the requirements of ANVISA and IBAMA.

Therefore, when choosing a consultancy, ensure that the team:

• Has up-to-date knowledge of Brazilian and international legislation;
• Offers support for the preparation of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and labeling in accordance with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).
• They can help align occupational safety programs with regulatory requirements.

A good consultant will not only help you comply with these regulations but will also proactively identify potential future regulatory changes that may impact your operations.

3. Evaluate the Consultancy’s Methodology and Tools

Each consultancy has its own way of diagnosing and controlling risks. Before hiring, ask how the company conducts its analyses and what methodologies it uses.

Some important aspects to consider:

• Does the consultancy conduct Preliminary Risk Analysis (PRA), HAZOP studies, or Occupational Risk Analysis (ORA)?
• Are modern tools, such as specialized software for chemical risk management, used?
• Does the consultancy adopt digital platforms to monitor risks and generate real-time reports?

Innovative methodologies and technological tools can increase the accuracy of risk identification and optimize decision-making.

4. Seek References and Case Studies

A reliable way to assess the quality of a consultancy is to learn from other companies that have used its services. Request references, case studies, or success stories.

By analyzing previous work, you can understand how the consultancy operates in practice:

• Did it achieve measurable results, such as reducing accidents or improving compliance?
• Was the service adapted to the client’s reality or based only on generic models?
• Was there follow-up after project implementation?

References not only validate the consultancy’s competence but also provide insights into its ability to maintain long-term partnerships.

5. Assess Communication and Training Capacity

Chemical risk management involves people at all levels of the organization. It is useless to have technical reports if employees do not understand or apply preventive measures.

Therefore, the consultancy must also be able to communicate clearly and promote training. Good indicators include:

• Offering courses, workshops, and practical training on chemical safety.
• Producing accessible materials for operators, technicians, and managers.
• Acting as a partner that clarifies doubts and guides decision-making.

A consultancy that invests in communication and knowledge transfer helps foster a safety culture within the company.

6. Compare Cost-Benefit and Service Customization

Finally, it is essential to analyze the consultancy’s cost-benefit ratio. The lowest price is not always the best option—especially when dealing with chemical risks, where failures can result in serious accidents, legal liabilities, and financial losses.

When comparing proposals, consider:

• Does the consultancy offer a package of customized services or just standardized solutions?
• Is there flexibility to adapt to the company’s size and sector?
• Are there options for continuous monitoring, not just punctual services?

The ideal consultancy is the one that balances technical quality, financial viability, and commitment to your company’s goals.

Choosing a chemical risk management consultancy is a strategic decision that goes beyond mere regulatory compliance. It is about ensuring the safety of people, protecting the environment, preserving company assets, and maintaining competitiveness in the market.

By following the six tips presented—checking experience, analyzing knowledge of standards, evaluating methodologies, seeking references, valuing communication, and considering cost-benefit—you will be better prepared to select a consultancy that acts as a true partner in your company’s growth and sustainability.

Chemical risks are complex, but with specialized support, they can be controlled effectively. Investing in the right consultancy is not an expense, but a guarantee of safety, compliance, and trust in the future.

This content is brought to you by our partner Chemical Risk - https://www.chemicalrisk.com.br/