The Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) is concerned by the prospect of an “increasing disconnect” between the HSE and businesses operating in lower or medium-risk sectors, but still wants lighter-touch regulation of such companies.
The EU’s Environment Committee has called on the European Commission to update accident-prevention rules for dangerous-substance sites, including improved chemical classifications, clearer information for the public, and more frequent site inspections.
In what is being hailed as a “landmark decision”, the Court of Appeal has ruled in favour of a former RAF corporal who was diagnosed with a degenerative neurological condition following exposure to harmful toxins while working for the Ministry of Defence.
In part recognition of the need to maintain high standards of health and safety in the chemical industry, employer representatives and unions have thrashed out a European-wide training agreement to ensure competence of workers in the sector.
A petrochemical company failed to implement vital safety changes following an oil spill at its refinery in Scotland, which would have prevented a second spill a year later.
A North Devon decorating supplies company has appeared in court for failing to provide adequate washing facilities for employees who were at risk of contracting dermatitis.
A man with learning difficulties died and five others with disabilities suffered horrific internal injuries after a carer confused dishwasher fluid with orange squash and gave it to a group to drink on a council-organised trip.
Michelle Twigg looks at the current strategic standpoint taken by the Health and Safety Executive, and asks whether it will adequately address emerging chemical risks in the workplace and lead to significant improvements in worker health.
The European Union’s new regulations covering the classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals will bring major changes for the industry, so Douglas Leech outlines what they involve.
Every year, millions of tonnes of industrial chemicals help keep British businesses across almost every industry sector running smoothly, but their widespread use and application also makes them one of the workplace’s greatest hazards. In terms of how to handle them safely, John Thorne provides a quick reminder for practitioners of how to select the right gloves.
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) have become commonplace for the transport and storage of chemicals. However, recent research has shown that some IBCs may create unacceptable levels of risk in storage. As a result, new industry guidance has been issued. Douglas Leech explains what is involved.
With a new system intended to harmonise the global classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals due to come into force next year, Mark Blainey examines the changes that this will bring to existing legislation.
Farmers and agricultural workers should benefit from a new ISO standard on protective clothing in terms of reducing the health risks associated with using liquid pesticides.
Data on the health, safety and environmental performance of UK chemical distributors in 2010 has just been released by the Chemical Business Association (CBA).
VWR International Ltd, a distributor for the laboratory market, has won this year’s overall Chemical Business Association (CBA) Responsible Care Award.
Experts from Lorien Engineering Solutions are reminding practitioners that there are processes that can be introduced to help prevent chemical explosions.
Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics has extended the shelf life of its ONESuit® Pro gas-tight chemical-protective hazmat suits from seven to ten years, following testing.
A reusable chemical-protection suit has been developed by Draeger. According to the company, should an outer layer of the CPS 7900 suit be damaged, the wearer is kept safe via a new tear-resistant, five-layer, laminated D-Mex material.
Chemical safety solutions provider Chemstore has just announced the nationwide rollout of its Chemical Safety Site Audit. This free service will be particularly beneficial to any organisation that handles, stores or uses hazardous or pollutant substances, says the company.
Polyco has launched a new addition to its Matrix hand-protection range. The Matrix Nitri-Chem is described as a tough nitrile glove, which can be used for a wide variety of applications to protect users from exposure to chemicals and abrasion.
