Chemical Management System
Streamlined chemical tracking and compliance
Sanco Shipping AS, a leader in maritime operations, has always prioritised safety, compliance, and sustainability. However, managing chemicals onboard vessels posed significant challenges.
SDS (safety data sheets) were often outdated, and tracking chemical exposure logs manually created inefficiencies and compliance risks. Updating stock lists was a slow process, relying on Excel spreadsheets and lacking centralised control. Ensuring that the vessel’s crew had easy access to safety precautions and requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE) was another pressing concern.
Additionally, during external audits, chemical compliance often became an essential aspect, requiring Sanco Shipping AS to present thorough documentation efficiently. The company needed a solution that would not only streamline chemical management but also ensure compliance with ever-evolving maritime regulations.
Photo: Sanco Group
Sanco Shipping AS chose Metizoft
After evaluating multiple solutions, Sanco Shipping AS chose Metizoft for its user-friendly interface, strong compliance features, and robust support.
" It took some time for our crews to adapt to the new process, but once onboard, the benefits became evident. The system is easy to use, and crews have quickly become familiar with it," says Caroline Guerra, HSEQ, Sanco Shipping AS. "The system has significantly improved how we manage chemicals. Classifications and labeling are clear, exposure logs are easier to track, and regulatory requirements are met seamlessly "
Sanco Shipping’s adoption of Metizoft’s chemical management system in 2017 was a natural progression in a long-standing collaboration that began with IHM services two years earlier. Over time, the partnership has expanded to include ESG reporting as well — making chemical safety and crew exposure management a consistent part of Sanco’s wider compliance and ESG strategy.
Metizoft’s chemical management system provides:
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Instant access to up-to-date SDSs: ensuring the latest safety information about all chemicals onboard.
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Streamlined PPE identification: crew members can quickly see necessary precautions without sifting through lengthy documents.
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Improved stock management: chemicals onboard are now tracked efficiently, reducing waste and unnecessary purchases.
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Digital exposure logs: eliminating the need for manual record-keeping and ensuring data retention for compliance.
Photo: Sanco Group
Sanco Shipping AS has seen enhanced operational efficiency with Metizoft's solution:
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Faster audits: external auditors are immediately satisfied when they see Metizoft in use, reducing scrutiny and paperwork.
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Time savings: keeping SDSs updated on board is now effortless, and exposure log management is more structured and reliable.
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Cost efficiency: reducing the amount of chemicals onboard and maintaining better inventory control has led to cost savings.
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Reduced risk of errors and environmental harm: better classification, labelling, and hazard communication have minimised potential safety risks.
Beyond improving daily operations, Metizoft has helped Sanco Shipping AS make safer choices by replacing hazardous chemicals with safer alternatives, ensuring compliance while also creating a healthier work environment and reducing environmental impact.
A long-term, reliable partnership
Sanco sees Metizoft as a trusted partner in its ongoing growth and compliance journey. "While there were some early challenges, these have been addressed with great improvements and responsiveness." Guerra notes she's happy to recommend Metizoft to other companies in the maritime sector:
“I strongly recommend Metizoft because it’s an easy-to-use system that ensures compliance, enhances safety, and simplifies chemical management. Crew members always have access to the latest SDS, and office teams can efficiently monitor entries in real-time. It makes staying compliant effortless and keeps operations running smoothly.”
As maritime regulations continue to evolve, Sanco Shipping AS is confident that Metizoft will continue to provide the innovation and support necessary to stay ahead.
For companies looking to enhance their chemical management, improve compliance, and drive sustainability, Sanco’s success story demonstrates how Metizoft’s solutions can make a measurable impact.
