NACD
The National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD), established in 1971, is an international association of chemical distributor companies that purchase, take title to and possession of chemical products from manufacturers. Member companies process, formulate, blend, repackage, warehouse, transport, and market these chemical products exclusively for a domestic industrial customer base of approximately 750,000.

Approximately 18 billion dollars of U.S. chemical industry sales are through chemical distributors, whose active engagement in the import/export trade contributes significantly to the chemical industry's annual positive balance of trade. Industrial customers use these materials to produce:

NACD's 300 member companies are located in every region of the country and operate more than 700 chemical distribution facilities. NACD also has member companies in Canada and Europe. Member companies are largely entrepreneurial and generally service a particular geographic region and specific industrial sector. They are typically small businesses, although some businesses are international in scope. They know their products and processes and provide value-added services to their customers in a professional, responsible manner.

All member companies are committed to product stewardship and responsible distribution in every phase of chemical storage, handling, transportation, and disposal. A condition of membership in the Association is a signed commitment to the NACD Responsible Distribution Process® (RDP), which requires members to file periodic self-assessments documenting continuous improvement in health, safety and environmental protection.

The RDP recognizes the industry must meet or exceed legal requirements for the responsible management of chemical products and practices. It is especially sensitive and responsive to community needs and public concerns. NACD members lead their communities as technical and safety resources and are eager to assist local, state, and federal legislators on technical issues relating to the safe handling, storage, transportation, use and disposal of chemical products.

Another member-voted condition of membership is mail-in, third-party verification of company policies and procedures. Parker Services is the third-party verification firm. As of January 1, 1998, all companies, including new applicants, must be in full compliance with the RDP as a condition of membership.

The NACD Educational Foundation, established in 1991, is dedicated to increasing the awareness of chemical safety and protecting health and the environment. It conducts educational programs for its customers, various federal, state and local industries, and the general public on issues regarding the safe handling, storage, use, and transport of chemical products in order to protect health, safety, and the environment.