Quick response in case of chemical accident | Umweltbundesamt

GSBL is Germany’s largest and most important substance database. There is a listing of 480 features of substance properties and governing legislation on some 400,000 substances. The information is displayed as facts such as test results, and it describes measures to be taken, e.g. in the event of an accident. Both experts and laymen will find the substance descriptions to be easy to understand. Full access to the application is granted to all state and municipal authorities of associated partners. There is a public use version for the general public whose portal can be used for researching data.

The GSBL cooperation between the federal government and the Laender has a longstanding tradition, as the two have managed a joint pool of data on substances since 1995. An agreement about the search application has been in effect since 1998.  Environmental associations make use of GSBL to monitor trade and health and safety at the workplace, or in the area of disposal of hazardous substances. The scientific community appreciates the high standards of relevant and up-to-date information. GSBL has also served in danger prevention with its quick information system on hazardous substances (GSA), for example in cases of natural disasters, accidents, or damages owing to these substances. Operational staff such as fire departments and the police are key institutions that use GSBL.