ICE, Intervention in Chemical Transport Emergencies, is an initiative of Cefic, the European Chemical Industry Council.
ICE is a collaborative initiative established by the European chemical industry to provide effective assistance during chemical transport incidents.
Across Europe, ICE aims to create a structured framework for emergency response by:
- leveraging the emergency response schemes of individual chemical companies;
- building on existing local, regional, and product-specific emergency schemes (e.g., for bromine, isocyanates, ethylene oxide, titanium tetrachloride);
- collaborating with national authorities through the National Chemical Federations;
- promoting mutual assistance within the chemical industry.
Each national ICE scheme focuses exclusively on distribution incidents, those occurring outside manufacturing sites, and is formalised through a protocol between the national chemical industry federation and the relevant national authorities.
Our purpose and values
ICE supports emergency responders across Europe in chemical transport incidents. It provides expert guidance, product-specific information, and on-scene assistance to protect people and the environment.
ICE is built on safety, collaboration, expertise, responsibility, and preparedness. It ensures rapid, reliable support to minimise harm during chemical emergencies.
Backed by science, operational knowledge, and decades of real-life interventions.
We work transparently, responsibly, and with integrity, supporting authorities and protecting the environment.
We respond fast and act with professionalism. Every intervention aims to reduce impact and restore safety as quickly as possible.
How we help: Levels of support by ICE
Participation in a national emergency scheme is voluntary but requires a clear commitment from companies to support competent authorities in chemical transport incidents.
Depending on their capabilities and resources, companies can provide three levels of support:
Level 1 Support: Substance Information
Level 2 Support: Expert Contact
Level 3 Support: Intervention Teams & Equipment
Our ICE team
For questions, contact us at ice@cefic.be
ERICards – Cefic Emergency Response Intervention Cards
ERICards provide first responders with rapid guidance at chemical transport incidents when product information is not available.