What are PROC (Process Category) and ERC (Environmental Release Category)? What do they mean?

What is Proc (Process Category) ?

PROC stands for "Process Category" and is a code used to describe the processes by which chemicals and mixtures are used. These codes specify how a particular process is performed and under what conditions. PROC codes are important to ensure that chemicals are used safely and effectively.

PROC (Process Category) codes are used to describe the processes in which chemicals and mixtures are used. These codes help to identify the specific conditions and methods under which a chemical is handled. Here are some common PROC codes and their meanings:

• PROC1: Use in closed process, no likelihood of exposure.

• PROC2: Use in closed, continuous process with occasional controlled exposure.

• PROC3: Use in closed batch process (synthesis or formulation).

• PROC4: Use in batch and other process (synthesis) where opportunity for exposure arises.

• PROC5: Mixing or blending in batch processes for formulation of preparations and articles (multistage and/or significant contact).

• PROC6: Calendering operations.

• PROC7: Industrial spraying.

• PROC8a: Transfer of substance or preparation (charging/discharging) from/to vessels/large containers at non-dedicated facilities.

• PROC8b: Transfer of substance or preparation (charging/discharging) from/to vessels/large containers at dedicated facilities.

• PROC9: Transfer of substance or preparation into small containers (dedicated filling line, including weighing).

• PROC10: Roller application or brushing.

• PROC11: Non-industrial spraying.

• PROC12: Use of blowing agents in manufacture of foam.

• PROC13: Treatment of articles by dipping and pouring.

• PROC14: Production of preparations or articles by tabletting, compression, extrusion, pelletisation.

• PROC15: Use as laboratory reagent.

• PROC16: Using material as fuel sources, limited exposure to unburned product to be expected.

• PROC17: Lubrication at high energy conditions and in partly open process.

• PROC18: Greasing at high energy conditions.

• PROC19: Hand-mixing with intimate contact and only PPE available.

• PROC20: Heat and pressure transfer fluids in dispersive, professional use but closed systems.

• PROC21: Low energy manipulation of substances bound in materials and/or articles.

• PROC22: Potentially closed processing operations with minerals/metals at elevated temperature.

• PROC23: Open processing and transfer operations with minerals/metals at elevated temperature.

• PROC24: High (mechanical) energy work-up of substances bound in materials and/or articles.

• PROC25: Other hot work operations with metals.

• PROC26: Handling of solid inorganic substances at ambient temperature.

ERC stands for "Environmental Release Category." These codes are used to describe the environmental release and impact of chemicals during their production, use, and disposal processes. Here are some common ERC codes and their meanings:

1. ERC1: Manufacture of substances in closed systems.

2. ERC2: Formulation of preparations in closed systems.

3. ERC3: Formulation in closed batch processes.

4. ERC4: Industrial use of processing aids in closed systems.

5. ERC5: Industrial use resulting in inclusion into or onto a matrix.

6. ERC6a: Industrial use resulting in manufacture of another substance (use of intermediates).

7. ERC6b: Industrial use of reactive processing aids.

8. ERC7: Industrial use of substances in closed systems.

9. ERC8a: Wide dispersive indoor use of processing aids in open systems.

10. ERC8b: Wide dispersive indoor use of reactive substances in open systems.

11. ERC8c: Wide dispersive indoor use resulting in inclusion into or onto a matrix.

12. ERC8d: Wide dispersive outdoor use of processing aids in open systems.

13. ERC9a: Wide dispersive indoor use of substances in closed systems.

14. ERC9b: Wide dispersive outdoor use of substances in closed systems.

15. ERC10a: Wide dispersive indoor use of substances in open systems.

16. ERC10b: Wide dispersive outdoor use of substances in open systems.

17. ERC11a: Wide dispersive indoor use of substances in closed systems with low release.

18. ERC11b: Wide dispersive outdoor use of substances in closed systems with low release.

These codes help ensure the safe and effective use of chemicals while minimizing their environmental impact.