The Eastern Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) as part of its mandate on Thursday 5, September, 2024, organised Precursor Chemicals training workshop for companies and institutions whose operations involve the use of precursor chemicals in the production of a wide range of products.
The theme for the program was “Ensuring Safety and Compliance: Management of Precursor Chemicals to Prevent Diversion.”
The workshop offered participants an in-depth knowledge on precursor chemicals usage and handling, effects of precursor chemicals, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and how the companies can acquire their various permits from the Commission.
The Command took the opportunity to educate participants about the harmful effects of illegal drugs and the need for all to join in the drug fight.
Speaking at the event, Director of Operations and Enforcement of NACOC, CNCO Solomon Stanley Eyo urged participants to adhere to the procedures in acquiring and handling of the chemicals.
On her part, the Regional Commander of the Commission, PNCO Grace A-B Tawiah stressed on the crucial role of companies that use precursor chemicals in safeguarding the communities they operate in. She also entreatednthem to adhere to the protocols in dealing with when and how these chemicals are used responsibly.
She added that when the chemicals are mismanaged or diverted, it can become tools for harm, contributing to illegal activities that threaten public health and safety.
The Regional Commander highlighted that, the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020 (ACT 1019) mandates NACOC to organise such trainings annually for companies that deals in precursor chemicals to equip them with the knowledge and skills to ensure operational safety, compliance and how to properly store these precursor chemicals.
PNCO Tawiah thanked the companies within the Region for always responding positively whenever they are called upon. She urged them to continue to work with the Commission in unity so as to strengthen the relationship to the benefit of all.
What is a precursor chemical?
Precursor is a compound that participates in a chemical reaction that produces another compound.
These chemicals could be used for the legal production of varieties of products like pharmaceuticals, perfumes, plastics, cosmetics etc. Examples of Precursor Chemicals include; Sulfuric acid, Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine, Ammonium chloride, Hydrochloric acid, Ammonium hydroxide etc.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
