Chemicals' superpowers need to be handled carefully, says industry
"Are chemicals a hero or villain?" was the provocative question fizzing at an industry seminar at Bangkok’s Landmark Hotel on Thursday (September 3).
The aim of the talk was to create awareness that chemicals help drive the country’s economy but also that they must be used responsibly to avoid damaging people’s health and the environment, explained Kriengkrai Thiennukul, vice chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
"The chemical industry is one of the upstream sectors that play an important role in driving the country's economy," he said.
Last year, Thailand exported chemicals worth over Bt100 billion while also importing more than Bt480 billion of chemicals to feed local demand.
"Chemicals also play an important role in people's daily lives, such as in seasonings, medicines, cosmetics and pesticides," Kriengkrai noted.
"However, using chemicals incorrectly can affect people's daily lives as well, so creating awareness on using chemicals safely is very important," he added.
Petcharat Eksangkul, honorary president of the Chemical Industry Club, added some practical safety tips to the mix.
"The best way to use chemicals safely is to read the instructions, know the chemical safety signs, and wear personal protective equipment before using chemical products," she said.