On June 26, 2025, South Korea’s Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL) published details of 51 newly manufactured or imported chemical substances under Announcement No. 260 of 2025. The disclosure includes hazard and risk assessments, annual production or import volumes, and mandatory health protection measures for workers.

As stipulated by the Industrial Safety and Health Act, companies intending to manufacture or import new chemical substances must submit hazard and risk assessment reports to the MOEL at least 30 days prior to commencement. Submissions may be made online via the Labor Portal (labor.moel.go.kr) or mailed directly to the Chemical Accident Prevention Division.

Out of the 51 substances listed, 25 have been identified as posing significant health hazards—most notably Methyldichlorosilane and N,N-Dimethylphosphoramidic dichloride. Reported hazards include acute toxicity, skin corrosion or irritation, and serious eye damage.

To safeguard workers, the MOEL has mandated the following protective measures for companies handling these substances:

· Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provision of appropriate PPE such as gloves, goggles, and protective clothing.

· Protective Infrastructure: Installation of ventilation systems, including local exhaust units, to reduce exposure.

· Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): Mandatory submission of MSDS documents detailing chemical composition, associated hazards, safe handling, and storage protocols.

· Information Disclosure and Labeling: MSDS content must be visibly displayed in the workplace. Containers and packaging must carry clear hazard labels and precautionary information.

· Worker Safety Training: Employers must provide targeted training on chemical hazards and safe handling procedures for affected employees.

This move reflects South Korea’s continued commitment to strengthening chemical safety regulations. By mandating early risk identification and strict compliance with protective measures, the MOEL aims to minimize occupational health incidents and enhance workplace safety standards. Companies dealing with these substances must ensure full compliance with the updated reporting and safety requirements.

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