The New Zealand Chemical Industry Council (NZCIC) launched Responsible Care™ in 1991 to encourage industry to operate responsibly. Responsible Care™ requires employers to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements, and implement a process of continuous improvement to protect the health and safety of employees and the public, while minimising any adverse impact on the environment.

Information contained in the comprehensive Responsible Care Manager's Handbook™ was:

• developed and written by New Zealand specialists in safety, health and environmental protection;
• offers proven management strategies with examples based on best international and industry SH&E practice;
• features easy to follow guidance and information designed to help employers implement sound SH&E protection policies and procedures in the workplace;
• contains the best reference material available including current legislation and codes of practice;
• incorporates both internal and external assessment procedures to verify actual performance.