SOURCING OF RAW MATERIALS, INTERMEDIATES AND ADDITIVES- PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP

SOURCING OF RAW MATERIALS, INTERMEDIATES AND ADDITIVES

INTRODUCTION

In terms of Product Stewardship sourcing of raw materials, intermediates and additives means that the goods are produced using Best Available Techniques, under safe operations for the suppliers' workforce and that the goods have a minimum impact on the environment.
In addition the supplier should provide SHE information for the product in order to ensure safe handling. Companies should have a supplier selection and management system in place to achieve this.

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

There are no legal requirements.

Fertilizers  REQUIREMENTS

Assessment of possible adverse effects on health and environment in the sourcing of raw materials, intermediates and additives.

ESTABLISH CONTROLS IN RAW MATERIAL PURCHASING AND PRODUCT SOURCING WITH REGARD TO PRODUCT SAFETY

 The sourcing of raw materials intermediates and additives is not only subject to economical but also to quality considerations. Since these products are mostly used to produce final fertilizers it is important to consider this quality issue since it may influence the efficiency of the production process and the quality of the end product. However, from a Product Stewardship point of view the possible adverse effects on health and the environment are important and should also be assessed:

• Are alternative sources available to minimize SHE effects?
• Are safety related issues in production considered?
• Are deviations in quality of sources considered?
• Does the supplier operate according to environmental and safe conditions?
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  SUPPLIER SELECTION AND MANAGEMENT

  Based on the product selection criteria mentioned under product sourcing, selection of suppliers is required and a supplier selection and management system should be in place. The selection and management system contains the following steps:
  • Implement a documented procedure for the selection and evaluation of suppliers.
  • Select suppliers based on their SHE performance, acceptance of their products regarding further use in manufacturing process and in application.
  • Specify the contract. Make the specifications related to SHE part of the contract. Request Safety Data Sheets.
  • Verify any agreement with contract obligations. Inspect and test incoming materials.

  Review supplier compliance with contract obligations. Take corrective actions.

  
  

  THIRD PARTY PRODUCTS (TPP)

  For Third Party Products (traded products and swaps) procedures should be in place that set requirements for testing for safety and product quality. In addition procedures should be in place for checking on a regular basis that Third Party Products satisfy the Company's requirements.