Hazardous Chemicals (HAZCHEM) Transportation
Safe transportation of hazardous chemicals is an integral part of Asian Paints’ process safety, environmental protection and responsible supply chain practices. Given the risks associated with movement of hazardous materials, we follow a structured transportation management approach that combines defined operating controls, technology-enabled monitoring and emergency preparedness.
During FY 2025-26, we released a comprehensive Hazardous Chemical Transportation Procedure to standardise safety requirements across the transportation lifecycle. The procedure defines responsibilities for suppliers, transporters, drivers and receiving locations, and sets minimum expectations for driver competency, vehicle safety, documentation, driving hours, emergency response preparedness and incident reporting. It also mandates key safeguards such as safety equipment, emergency information panels, TREM cards, spill response resources and vehicle tracking systems.
Real-time monitoring is currently being implemented for monomer transportation, covering approximately 300 trips every month. Before dispatch, each tanker is inspected by an independent surveyor using a standardised checklist to verify vehicle fitness, safety devices, documentation, emergency equipment, tanker integrity and statutory compliance. Only vehicles that meet the prescribed requirements are permitted for loading and transportation.
To strengthen journey safety, monitored vehicles are connected to a dedicated control room that provides 24x7 oversight. The system tracks key parameters such as over-speeding, night driving, continuous driving, prolonged stoppages and loss of GPS communication. In case of deviations, the control room engages with the driver, reinforces safe driving behaviour and initiates corrective action to prevent escalation.
We have also established a structured transportation incident reporting system for transporters, supported by route-specific emergency response arrangements and Journey Risk Management assessments for critical routes. In the event of an emergency, specialised third-party response agencies can be mobilised for on-site containment, recovery, technical guidance and stabilisation support, helping minimise potential impacts on people, property and the environment.
Through these initiatives, Asian Paints continues to strengthen a risk-based and technology-enabled approach to hazardous chemical transportation, improving visibility of transportation risks and reinforcing responsible chemical stewardship across the supply chain.