In order to manage its environmental, health, safety and security (EHS&S) risks, Agrium has established rigorous processes and regular independent reviews to ensure compliance with these processes and all related laws and regulations. Responsible management of EHS&S matters must not only be integrated into the value chain, but must be carefully considered as Corporate strategies and action plans are being formulated. For this reason, environmental projects, which prevent or reduce future contamination, are separately identified.

Agrium’s policy is to audit each major production facility every three years, at a minimum, and each retail outlet every two years. Agrium has employees who are qualified to perform compliance, system, process and regulatory EHS&S audits. In addition, external EHS&S specialists are engaged where appropriate to review the audit processes and standards. Follow-up procedures are also in place to ensure deficiencies are addressed and performance results are reported to the Environment, Health, Safety & Security Committee of the Board of Directors on a quarterly basis.

In addition to ongoing audits of active facilities and farm centres, the EHS&S group is also charged with the responsibility to monitor and recommend remedial action on inactive sites and to advise on the environmental and economic implications of future decommissioning of facilities. Other responsibilities of the group include the maintenance, communication and testing of Agrium’s emergency response plan.