Chemical Substance Management and Pollution Prevention

Initiatives for chemical substance control and pollution prevention

Monthly compliance checks by certified personnel

At each plant, Furuya Metal continuously monitors and maintains up-to-date information on all laws and regulations relevant to its equipment, processes, materials, and operations. Based on these requirements, certified personnel conduct monthly compliance checks to verify adherence to applicable legal and regulatory standards.

Following each inspection, the results are reviewed and approved by management, ensuring an ongoing system of accountability and full compliance with all legal obligations.

Prevention of chemical leaks and enhanced emergency management

Furuya Metal regularly conducts leak response drills simulating potential emergency situations, such as chemical spills that may occur during business operations. These drills are performed in line with established procedures, and their effectiveness is evaluated through practical training exercises, enabling continuous refinement of emergency response manuals.

Through these initiatives, Furuya Metal ensures that all employees are well-prepared to respond swiftly and appropriately in the event of an actual emergency.

Substitution of chemical substances

Furuya Metal actively pursues the replacement and reduction of chemical substances that may pose risks to human health or the environment. The company promotes the use of alternative materials and continuously upgrades its equipment and facilities to minimize or eliminate the use of such substances.

The following substances have been discontinued

• Designated chemical substance: Refractory Ceramic Fiber (RCF)
  An odorless, fibrous solid composed mainly of silica and alumina, RCF is an amorphous synthetic mineral fiber formerly used as furnace lining material. It has been identified as having carcinogenic and respiratory toxic properties.
• Volatile Organic Compound (VOC): Toluene
  Toluene is a flammable and toxic organic solvent that may cause damage to the central nervous system, kidneys, and liver. It was commonly used in coatings, inks, and adhesives.
• Designated fluorocarbon: R22
  R22, also known as HCFC (Hydrochlorofluorocarbons), is a compound with ozone depletion potential. It was completely phased out in 2020 in accordance with the Montreal Protocol (1987) and the Ozone Layer Protection Act (enacted in 1988).