27 Dec 2012
A new consultation has been launched by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), regarding alterations to the laws concerning chemicals.
The legislation involves the domestic regulations that back up EU legislation on the export and import of hazardous chemicals, and biocides, and the classification and labelling of chemicals.
The HSE wants to consult on plans to make the legislation simpler to use, and to upgrade it.
It proposes to make the regulations less complex while not lessening the protection that is already there for workers, the public or the environment. The body also proposes not to add to any responsibilities already undertaken.
Opinions are also being sought on the proposed changes to the law on enforcement with regards to the import and export of chemicals.
The Lofstedt report published in November 2011 recommended reinforcement of the biocides sector legislation and these proposed changes are designed to secure this aim.
The HSE’s consultation manager, Deborah Traynor, said “Simplifying and consolidating the regulatory requirements concerning biocides, CLP and PIC will make it more straightforward for businesses in the chemical industry to understand and comply with their responsibilities.”
Copyright Press Association 2012