Sustainability

Transportation and Distribution Safety

We ensure safe transport, handling and storage of our products by relying on qualified logistics partners, globally harmonized standards, and an effective organization.

The picture shows an aerial view of a sprawling industrial and port landscape on a large river.

Our customers expect reliable logistics operations: products must arrive on time, in the correct quantity, and of the expected quality. Safe transport, handling, and storage across the entire supply chain are therefore essential. By doing so, we not only meet customer expectations, but also uphold our responsibility to society and the environment when delivering our products.

Our global requirements provide a consistent framework for safe transport, handling, and storage of all products. They form an integral part of the BASF Responsible Care Management System and are regularly updated to maintain compliance and ensure protection throughout our value chain.

A global network of trained Transportation and Distribution Safety Advisors (TDSAs) supports the implementation of these standards and contributes to a consistent and reliable safety performance across all regions.

Our approach to Transportation and Distribution safety:

Safety through Service Provider Selection

The photo shows a logistics facility where tank containers are being moved.

External logistics partners are assessed and monitored based on BASF’s internal standards and industry-recognized systems such as the Safety & Quality Assessment for Sustainability (SQAS). Any deviations are addressed immediately through structured quality and safety dialogues.

Marine and Barge Transportation

Independent experts assess vessel condition and operations. As a member of Chemical Distribution Institute (CDI) and Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF), BASF reviews these assessments using our own captains to ensure that only compliant tankers transport our products.

Safety through Design, Training and Monitoring

The photo shows a person working in an industrial plant, standing on top of a tanker truck.

Transportation and Distribution Safety Advisors support units in meeting internal and regulatory requirements. They ensure adequate training and perform internal reviews to continuously strengthen transportation safety.

Safety through Risk Assessment

Transport risks for hazardous chemical materials are regularly assessed in line with BASF and chemical industry standards such as the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC) guidelines to ensure consistent and effective risk mitigation.

Swift and effective Response to transport incidents

Rapid and competent incident response to transport incidents is essential. BASF participates in established emergency response networks such as TUIS and the ICE initiative to ensure immediate access to expert information and support.

If an incident occurs despite preventive measures, our global network of TDSAs offers expert support during the investigation of root causes, in defining corrective actions, and in developing strategies to avoid future incidents. More about Emergency Response

Large industrial and transportation facility from an aerial perspective.

We investigate and document all incidents on public grounds and roads arising from transport operations under BASF responsibility that exceed the reporting thresholds defined by the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA). This allows us to identify causes and implement corrective actions.
Major spillages —particularly incidents involving 200 l/kg or more of dangerous goods —undergo an extended investigation, including an assessment of potential environmental impact.

Facts and Figures

Where do we stand?

Conditions

Uniform Standards

Prevention

Safety and Quality Assessment

Responding Swiftly

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