Proper Control of Chemical Substances

Having set out the Kobe Steel Group Policy on Controlling Hazardous Substances, we make every effort to effectively control chemical substances. The Management Sheets for Designated Chemical Substances are used by all group companies to clearly specify usage and control methods for each substance. Sheets are used to calculate volumes transferred or released for notification in accordance with the PRTR Act^*1 and also as part of activities aimed at reducing consumption and emissions of chemical substances.

Notifications submitted in accordance with the PRTR Act, which has now been revised to include additional designated chemical substances, indicate that the Kobe Steel Group handled 52 designated substances, released^*2 approximately 812 metric tons and transferred^*3 approximately 605 metric tons in fiscal 2011.

*1 PRTR Act: Pollutant Release and Transfer Register: Legislation that requires notification of the releases of designated chemical substances into the environment and promotes improved controls.

*2 Combined total for chemical substances released into the air and water

*3 Combined total for chemical substances transferred off-site or into the sewers

Regulations on chemicals substances are becoming increasingly strict, not only in Japan but all over the world. With revised versions of the Act on the Evaluation of Chemicals Substances and the Regulation of their Manufacture and the PRTR Act coming into effect in Japan, we take all necessary steps to ensure compliance here at the Kobe Steel Group.

As well as reducing chemical emissions through ongoing activities within the group, such as those outlined in the table below, we are also working to share information and exchange opinions between departments in order to ensure adequate compliance with all relevant legislation.

In compliance with government regulations on the proper handling of waste containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), we place used transformers, condensers and other equipment containing PCBs in special storage and notify the authorities of the details.

We began outsourcing the disposal of PCBs at Kobe Steel in fiscal 2008 and continued to do so at each of our works (Kakogawa Works, Kobe Works and Takasago Works) during fiscal 2011.