The International Centre for Chemical Safety and Security (ICCSS) in consultation with the Ukrainian side and the OSCE agreed on the shape of the pilot-projects under the Integrated Chemical Safety and Security Program in Ukraine.
Kiev has confirmed that a gradual implementation of the Integrated Chemical Safety and Security Program (ICSSP) leads to a stronger integration and development of international cooperation for chemical safety and security. The Parties jointly stated that chemical safety and security process enhancement under ICSSP should focus on border security improvement with regards to dangerous goods transit as well as on the implementation of chemical and environmental safety and security at the local level. The program devotes special attention to strengthening safety and security in small and medium-sized enterprises, toxic substances transport and storage and protection of the general public.
Following Polish-Ukrainian partners' agreement, the priority projects list includes introduction of a harmonized system of rules and laws designed to implement safe management of chemicals in the domestic market and to ensure free trade with the European Union countries. The laws are intended to limit illegal access to chemicals.
ICSSP implementation is designed to foster awareness of chemical safety and security as well as toxic substances handling. Therefore Local Awareness and Responsibility Program will be implemented simultaneously; this will encompass a series of specialized training courses and seminars enhanced with a broad-scope educational campaign.
The program also includes enhancement of supervision over toxic substances use and disposal through control and operations trainings for government agencies. Transportation of chemicals requires a particular attention. Several hundreds of Ukrainian officers will receive crisis management and response training for situations involving chemical risks. The program will improve government agencies' expertise and experience in the management of this type of fraud. It will also strengthen knowledge on international obligations, in particular those related to the EU, CAC and UNSCR 1540 requirements.
The Ukraine's Integrated Chemical Safety and Security Program final phase creates the conditions to integrate the National Civil Protection System in Ukraine with the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism. The project includes presentation of the best system-related practices in EU member states, including Poland and implementation into Ukrainian system. Consolidated activities will allow to strengthen the integration of Ukraine in the context of civil protection and bring the country to the level required by European standards.
The Parties decided in accordance, that Ukraine Chemical Security Forum, which is to be held on 18 April 2016 within the scope of the Global Chemical Safety and Security Summit is an integral part of the Ukraine's Integrated Chemical Safety and Security Program (ICSSP) development. The Ukrainian Forum will introduce the current status of chemical safety and security in Ukraine and will discuss border security strengthening.