The ICTA RC/ RD program requires a formal commitment from each participating CEO to the eight Guiding Principles. These eight principles are the core of the RC/ RD program:

1. Legal requirements. Conform with all legal regulations and requirements and should operate in accordance with both government and industry codes of practice and guidance associated with their chemical activities.

2. Management of risk. Ensue that their activities do not present an unacceptable level of risk to employees, contractors, customers, the public or the environment.

3. Policies and documentation. Have written documentation, which covers their activities, and ensure that their health, safety, security and environmental policies reflect their commitment to A Joint Responsible Distribution/Responsible Care Program as an integral part of their business strategy.

4. Provision of information. Provide relevant health, safety, security and environmental information on company products and activities to employees, contractors, customers, statutory bodies and the public.

5. Training. Ensure that all employees are aware of their commitment and provide the training necessary to enable them to be involved in the achievement of health, safety, security and environmental objectives.

6. Emergency response. Establish and maintain an appropriate emergency response system.

7. Ongoing improvements. Support and participate in those activities that will improve the quality of their own operations and strengthen health, safety, security and environmental consciousness and awareness.

8. Community interaction. Maintain an awareness of and respond to community concerns that relate to their activities.
   Click here for the full Joint ICTA RC/RD program.

While the focus of the RC/ RD program lies with the chemical distribution companies, it is the responsibility of the national associations to make the program fully operational in their country. This means that they must develop guidance documents and checklists to assist their member companies to implement RC/ RD. The associations must also organize meetings at which members can share views and exchange experiences. Moreover the associations must report on the performance based on useful indicators. They must also cooperate with government and civil society to address their concerns and develop effective regulation.

A crucial contribution of the RC/ RD program is that is creates an incentive for validating the implementation of the key elements of the program. Through such a Third Party Verification by a independent third party assessment, companies receive honest feedback on their performance.

A supplementary RC/RD Third Party Verified logo can be awarded to member companies who have:

• Undertaken an independent, third party assessment of the company’s commitment to RC/RD (for example RD or ESAD ll); and
• Given permission for the ICTA Member Association and/ or a verification body to access the assessment report, to enable validation of compliance with the RC/RD program.