Chemical accidents and emergencies

Chemical emergencies, both natural and man-made, may result in the release of substances hazardous to human health and the environment, and may cause deaths and disease in the short or long term. Since 2010, major industrial accidents in the European Union have been responsible for approximately 20 deaths, 70 injuries, evacuation or shelter-in-place of several thousand citizens and damage to property and the environment that account for millions of euros.

Actions in this area are framed within the International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005). WHO/Europe supports countries in applying the IHR all-hazards approach, which covers biological, chemical or radiological events of public health concern. The renewed mandate given to Member States and WHO under the IHR has increased their respective roles and responsibilities.