In manufacturing plants, traceability of all chemicals, parts, tools, etc., is a priority. To take the facility to the next step of chemical traceability, I was tasked with developing a chemical tracking database.

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Microsoft Access is the system used to develop the database, which runs on Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). Since I knew nothing about Access or VBA prior to this project, I have developed my understanding of them alongside the database.

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The database has two broad functions:

• Store information on each container

• Track transactions of chemicals

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The first involves storing unique data for each chemical, such as description, a unique ID, fill and exp. dates, SDS and TDS, and dozens more characteristics. All of this information can be uniquely searched for to produce a report. This report functions as an inventory, whether searching for a specific chemical's info or sending out weekly emails to remind users of chemicals that may expire soon. In addition, the dozens of filters available for this report allow a user to quickly find information on any set of chemicals they need.

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The second function of the database is related to transactions. This could include filling one container with another or checking a container in or out. These actions are completed through the locked chemical cabinets, which are only unlocked for an operator during a transaction. This allows for complete tracking of operator interactions with the cabinets. In addition, this allows for the tracking of container usage. Upon performing a fill or checking in/out a container, the containers are weighed to calculate precise usage. These changes in the remaining chemical amount are compared to set thresholds to determine when a chemical is low and needs to be ordered.

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An operator is able to scan a  chemical's unique ID to view or edit (if authorized) from either designated locked kiosks throughout the facility or any company computer through the network drive. These kiosks also function to lock cabinets via a solenoid, check containers in and out, refill one container with another, and track container usage either through weighing of chemicals or measuring of volume. All of these user actions are linked to a user's unique badge number, allowing reporting of all user activity.