The need for a comprehensive and co-ordinated international approach to the sound management of chemicals has been recognized for over 30 years. The SAICM initiative was endorsed by the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg in September 2002. A key feature of the SAICM process is its engagement of all sectors of society with an interest in chemical safety, including environment, health, agriculture, labour, industry and development, and policy co-ordination across sectors at both national and international levels to help ensure effective management of chemical risks. The World Health Assembly (WHA) and the International Labour Conference (ILC) both formally expressed support for, and willingness to contribute to, the SAICM process. With links to the full text of the WHA and ILC resolutions, IFCS information circulars and PrepCom2 and PrepCom3 contributions, National Focal Points, Regional Groups and IFCS Champions.(Original source: http://www.who.int/ifcs/Saicm.htm)
