The Asbestos (Prohibitions) (Amendment) Regulations 1999 (SI 1999 No. 2373) will come into force in the UK on 24 November 1999 to implement EU Directive 99/77/EC. The Regulations prohibit the supply and use of chrysotile (white) asbestos and any product to which chrysotile asbestos has intentionally been added and which was not in use before 24 November 1999. The importation of chrysotile asbestos is also prohibited, however, there are a few exceptions as listed in the Schedule to the Regulations. Most notably: diaphragms for use in electrolytic cells in existing electrolysis plants for chlor-alkali manufacture; personal protective clothing for protection against the handling of material at 500ºC or more; certain vehicle brake linings; and any component of an aeroplane or helicopter which is necessary for its safe operation. Announcing the Regulations, the Environment Minister welcomed an end to the last legal form of asbestos in the UK, which has been proven to cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. The Regulations implement the EU ban ahead of the 1 January 2005 deadline and the UK Government is hoping that other Member States will follow suit.
(SO, August 1999)
