Hazardous Substances Assistant: The industry solution that benefits every company

In the installation sector, where nearly 160,000 professionals across more than 10,000 companies demonstrate their craftsmanship every day, the importance of working safely with hazardous substances is growing. But how do you ensure that all companies – both large and small – have the right knowledge to keep their employees healthy and safe when handling these chemicals?

Hazardous Substances Assistant: Making healthy working accessible
In collaboration with Volandis and Chemrade Software BV, WijTechniek has introduced a unique industry solution: the Hazardous Substances Assistant. This all-in-one platform provides companies with insights into their products, associated risks, and the correct ways to handle them, prioritising the health of employees. Additionally, it helps organisations comply with laws and regulations while consolidating valuable knowledge in one central location. The Hazardous Substances Assistant makes it easier, especially for companies with limited expertise, to handle hazardous substances responsibly and in compliance with regulations.

Theo Jan Heesen, programme manager for Occupational Health and Safety Technology at the WijTechniek development fund, explains:
“Many companies face the same challenges when it comes to working safely with chemicals. Managing and keeping information about products and substances up to date is complex and time-consuming, while ensuring a safe working environment is essential. With the Hazardous Substances Assistant, we ensure that companies, regardless of their size or knowledge level, have access to reliable information and practical tools. This makes healthy working achievable and accessible to everyone.”
Through the platform, companies can easily register the products they use and immediately access the associated safety information.

The power of a shared mission

What makes this solution truly unique is that the expertise of occupational hygienists is fully embedded in the software. “Where small companies previously needed an external occupational hygienist, they can now handle this themselves,” Theo Jan explains. “This saves time and costs while ensuring that employees continue to work safely and healthy. This fits perfectly with our philosophy of ‘responsible care.’ You take responsibility for providing a safe and healthy workplace for your employees.” The Hazardous Substances Assistant makes complex safety issues understandable and accessible to companies of all sizes.

Moreover, the cross-sectoral approach of this collaboration is remarkable. “WijTechniek and Volandis serve different sectors, but the safety goals are the same,” Theo Jan says. “By sharing information, we can learn from each other and ensure that knowledge and experience are not confined to a single sector.” Chemrade plays a crucial role in this. Kevin Lenting, safety expert at Occupational Health and Safety Technology, shares: “Over time, a very positive collaboration developed. Chemrade brings not only software expertise but also substantive knowledge that genuinely helps companies move forward. They think in terms of solutions and understand the needs of our sector.”

The first results: a solid start

“We opted for a ‘low-profile’ launch,” explains Theo Jan. “We want to first establish a solid foundation and roll out functionalities gradually. This way, we maintain control and ensure a smooth implementation for the companies already using it.” Although the Hazardous Substances Assistant was only recently launched as a pilot, the initial results are promising. “In just two weeks, we already have 41 users from 37 different companies, with more than 250 products registered,” Theo Jan shares enthusiastically. “This may seem like a small start in a sector with 10,000 companies, but every registration is a success. Our goal is to have 1,500 companies connected by the end of 2025, which represents 15% of the sector.”

Collaborating across sectors

The collaboration between WijTechniek and Volandis demonstrates the strength of cross-sector initiatives. Both organisations serve different industries, but their goal is the same: to share knowledge and become stronger together. “There is significant overlap in the products being used,” Kevin explains. “It only makes sense to combine forces and share this product information. The advantage is clear: by sharing knowledge and tools, we reduce costs and enable employees to handle chemicals responsibly.” Furthermore, the solution is future-proof. “It doesn’t stand still,” Theo Jan says. “The Hazardous Substances Assistant continues to evolve and is fully tailored to the sectors. Where companies were previously individually responsible for this kind of information, they now benefit from a shared industry tool. This strengthens not only individual companies but also the entire construction and installation sector.” At the same time, WijTechniek remains focused on its own field. “Our mission lies within the installation industry,” emphasises Theo Jan. “But if we can inspire other sectors with what we do, we are happy to share our experiences.”

Towards a healthy workplace for all

With the Hazardous Substances Assistant, WijTechniek, Volandis, and Chemrade Software have set a new standard in the industry. The ambition remains high: 1,500 connected companies and a growing number of registered products, providing businesses with easy access to crucial information. “Our goal is to support companies in taking responsibility,” Kevin concludes. “Every employee deserves a healthy workplace, and this initiative brings us one step closer to achieving that.”

Theo Jan Heesen is programme manager at Arbo Techniek.

Kevin Lenting is a safety expert at an installation company and spends one day a week as a safety expert for Arbo Techniek.