Chemical Safety Database
Information on chemical licensing, the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and OPCW implementation in Uganda.
About Chemical Safety in Uganda
The Occupational Safety and Health Department (OSHD) houses the National Authority for the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) in Uganda, operating in liaison with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Technical Secretariat. Chemical licensing is governed by the Toxic Chemicals Prohibition and Control Act, 2016.
Regulated Chemical Categories
🧪 Schedule 1 Chemicals
Highest RiskChemicals with few or no uses outside of chemical weapons. These pose the greatest risk to the Chemical Weapons Convention and are subject to the most stringent controls. Production, acquisition, retention, and use require specific authorisation from the National Authority.
⚗️ Schedule 2 Chemicals
High RiskChemicals that pose significant risk as they are precursors to chemical weapons or have limited commercial applications. Facilities producing these chemicals must submit declarations and are subject to inspection by OPCW.
🏭 Schedule 3 Chemicals
Moderate RiskChemicals produced in large quantities for commercial purposes that may also be used as precursors to chemical weapons. These include widely used industrial chemicals requiring declaration above specified thresholds.
🔧 Discrete Organic Chemicals (DOCs)
IndustrialOrganic chemicals used in industrial processes. Facilities producing, processing or consuming these in quantities above threshold limits are required to declare such activities to the National Authority annually.
☠️ Toxic Industrial Chemicals
Workplace HazardChemicals produced commercially for industrial purposes that are toxic to humans. Importation, export, storage and use of these chemicals require valid licenses issued by the OSH Department under the Toxic Chemicals Prohibition and Control Act, 2016.
Licensing Framework
Import License
Required for all importation of scheduled and toxic chemicals into Uganda. Application submitted to the OSH Department with MSDS documentation.
Export License
Required for export of controlled chemicals from Uganda. Subject to end-use verification and OPCW reporting obligations.
Production License
Required for any facility producing scheduled chemicals above declared thresholds. Includes quarterly reporting and OPCW inspection access.
Transit License
Required for transit of controlled chemicals through Ugandan territory. Subject to route approval and customs supervision.
Storage License
Required for bulk storage facilities handling quantities above regulatory thresholds. Annual renewal with facility inspection.
Disposal License
Required for safe disposal of chemical waste in compliance with environmental and health regulations. Co-ordinated with NEMA.
View valid chemical licenses issued by the OSH Department
View Chemical Licenses Database →