South Korea’s Ministry of Environment has released a significant update to its regulatory framework governing hazardous chemical facilities. On June 18, 2025, the Ministry issued a revised version of the “Notification on the Installation and Management of Facilities for the Manufacture, Use, and Storage of Hazardous Chemicals”, aligning it with the amended Chemical Substances Control Act (KCCA).
The revision reflects a modernized, risk-based approach, integrating acute, chronic, and environmental toxicity classifications into facility standards—bringing the system closer to EU CLP/REACH models.
Key Highlights of the 2025 Regulatory Overhaul
1. Unified Notification System
• 🧾 Previous separate notifications for manufacturing, usage, and storage have been consolidated into a single framework.
• Notifications are now customized by facility type, reducing redundancy and administrative burden.
2. Hazard-Based Technical Standards
Facilities are now classified into three risk categories, each with corresponding design and safety requirements outlined in annexes:
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3. Enhanced Operational Safety Protocols
Facilities handling hazardous chemicals must now adopt stricter safety and emergency procedures, including:
• Inventory tracking and secure storage
• Ventilation and gas detection systems
• Spill containment and restricted area access
• Staff training and emergency drills
A grace period is granted for facilities to implement high-cost upgrades like emission control infrastructure.
Why These Changes Matter
✅ Improved Risk Management: Tailoring facility standards to specific hazard types increases safety and control.
🧩 Regulatory Simplification: Merging multiple notification types into one system reduces complexity for operators.
🧯 Accident Prevention Focus: The new engineering and operational protocols target common incident causes—like leaks and fires.
🌍 Global Policy Alignment: Korea’s updated framework aligns more closely with international standards, improving global compliance and trade interoperability.
Stakeholder Engagement & Next Steps
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What Businesses Should Do Now
To prepare for compliance under the revised law, facility operators should:
🔍 Review Annex 1–3 to determine applicable standards 🏗️ Assess current infrastructure and plan upgrades 📘 Update internal safety manuals and protocols 💬 Submit written feedback to the National Institute of Chemical Safety (NICS) before July 7, 2025
Reference: South Korea Announces Major Overhaul of Hazardous Chemical Facility Regulations | RRMA
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