United Kingdom
COSHH
The HSC is consulting on several amendments to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 (SI 2002 No 2677). New restrictions are proposed for the supply and use of high chromium VI cement. The restriction is necessary to implement the 26th amendment to the EU marketing and use directive (2003/53/EC) which prohibits the placing on the market and use of cement containing more than two parts per million of soluble hydrated chromium VI. The Directive also requires new labelling rules for cement which will be implemented through the Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) (CHIP) Regulations 2002 (SI 2002 No 1689). The introduction of the measure was driven by concerns over allergic contact dermatitis through exposure of exposed skin to wet cement. The consultation paper also proposes to extend COSHH and the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 (SI 2002 No 2676) to all sea-going merchant ships. In addition, the HSC has proposed to clarify the wording in the COSHH and CLAW Regulations on the duty to maintain exposure control measures and related changes to the associated Approved Codes of Practice.
(HSC, March 2004)
Chemicals
The HSE, in conjunction with the EA, has issued practical advice on working with chemicals. A demonstration model of 'Chemical Essentials' is available on the internet to provide advice on the regulation of occupational health, safety at work and the environment. It should provide employers and employees with a better understanding of chemicals and the risks to human health. Advice is provided in areas such as controlling hazardous substances that they give rise to asthma, skin disease and cancer, without introducing any new legal obligations.
(HSE Press Release, 27 February 2004)
Health and safety strategy
A new strategy aimed at reducing the risks to health from the workplace has been published by the HSC in conjunction with the Department for Work and Pensions. It sets out future directions of work for the HSC, the HSE and local authorities. It is envisaged that resources will be targeted at areas considered to be in greatest need, while in areas where the risks appear to be well-managed there is likely to be lighter regulatory control. The new strategy is also aimed at promoting greater involvement of workers, making clear and simple advice and information readily accessible and stimulating closer working relationships between all stakeholders. It also sets out an implementation programme with deadlines for the various components of the strategy, a process which began with consultation in 2003. It is intended to finalise an intervention strategy by the end of 2004.
(HSC Press Release, 23 February 2004)
Fuel cells
A guidance booklet on the hazards associated with fuel cells is now available from the HSE. Fuel cells operate like a battery, but are at high risk of fire and explosion due to the fact that all suitable fuels are highly flammable. They are being used increasingly in place of fossil fuels as they do not give rise to greenhouse gas emissions. However, the use of the technology has led to a small number of fires on London buses using the fuel cells as part of an ongoing trial in several European cities. The guidance booklet provides advice to designers and users to increase awareness of the hazards and how to reduce them.
(HSE Press Release, 11 February 2004)
For Further information please contact Mark Rutter at mark.rutter@cms-cmck.com.
