Major Update to the Dutch Chemical Safety Dataset

We are pleased to announce a major update to the Dutch chemical safety dataset in DOHSBase Online. This release incorporates the latest regulatory information and occupational exposure limits for the Netherlands, and marks an important step forward in how we source and maintain this data.

What Has Changed

The November 2025 update includes the most recent Dutch regulatory data on chemical substances, including updated occupational exposure limits (grenswaarden), classification changes, and new substance entries. For occupational hygienists working in or with the Netherlands, this means that DOHSBase now reflects the current state of Dutch chemical safety regulation.

From Legacy Sources to Consolidated Online Databases

Perhaps more significant than the data itself is the underlying transition in how the Dutch dataset is compiled. Historically, DOHSBase sourced Dutch regulatory data from a combination of Excel spreadsheets, Access databases, and other legacy formats. While functional, this approach had inherent limitations: updates were slow, version control was difficult, and quality assurance required significant manual effort.

With this release, the Dutch dataset is now sourced from consolidated online databases. This transition brings several important benefits:

• More reliable updates — Online source databases are maintained by the issuing authorities themselves, reducing the risk of outdated or incorrect data being carried forward in DOHSBase.
• Faster regulatory incorporation — When Dutch authorities publish changes to exposure limits or classifications, these changes can now be incorporated into DOHSBase more quickly because the source data is available in a structured, machine-readable format.
• Better quality assurance — Automated validation against online source databases allows us to detect discrepancies earlier and resolve them before they reach users.

Why This Matters for Occupational Hygienists

Occupational hygienists rely on accurate, up-to-date substance data for workplace assessments, exposure evaluations, and regulatory compliance. Delays or errors in the underlying data can lead to incorrect risk assessments or missed regulatory changes. By moving to consolidated online sources, we reduce these risks and provide a more dependable foundation for your work.

Explore the Updated Dataset

The updated Dutch dataset is available now in DOHSBase Online. If you have questions about specific substances or notice any discrepancies, please do not hesitate to contact us.