3 June 2010

Nigel Ashcroft, the outgoing Chair of the District, gave an interesting and informed presentation covering the new Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulations (CLP) due to take effect in December 2010. Although he was addressing an audience of experienced health and safety professionals he approached the subject in a systematic way. For clarity he proceeded from a position that the audience had little or no prior knowledge of chemicals in the workplace.

Chemicals Users
The Seminar was publicised to attract anyone who uses: diesels, oils, cleaners, cement, paint, pesticides, ink cartridges etc.  That meant that it applied to anyone using any kind of chemicals or substances in the workplace.  The Seminar was not designed to deal with the REACH requirements applicable to chemical manufacturers.

Nigel began by asking why is chemical hazard communication important?  He went on to outline how those using chemicals need to know what they are handling and the precautions to take. He reminded the audience that others also need to know and they include fellow workers, cleaners, maintenance personnel, visitors and the Emergency Services.

New CLP System/move to GHS
He then explained the new Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) system that is due to take effect in Ireland in December 2010.  He clarified the move to have one coherent system for all chemicals in the EU and the reasoning behind the adoption of Globally Harmonised System of Classification (GHS).  He also mentioned REACH and Safety Data Sheets.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
He focused on the importance of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) as key information sources for Downstream Users who have obligations to identify, apply and recommend appropriate measures to adequately control risks identified in the SDS, check the document when it is received, check that it is in a language that is understood, that the organisation’s use of the substance is covered by it, that the information is consistent with classification, label etc., that the risk management measures are appropriate and the relevant exposure scenario is attached.  If any of this information is incorrect then there is an obligation on the Downstream User to contact the supplier.

Assuming that SDS is correct it will allow the user to evaluate risks to workers, to make SDS information available to workers and records of chemicals used etc. should be kept for 10 years

Main changes to Safety Data Sheets
Nigel went on to explain that the familiar SDS will change.  The main changes will be:
 More detailed structure with more sub-sections
 Increased content - probably longer
 More targeted information & Exposure Scenario
 Updated regularly
 Dual classifications until 2015
 New Annex II from December 2010

Key steps in CLP
In his coverage of CLP he outlined the key steps in the process which include Classification, labelling, packaging and notification to C&L Inventory.  He went through the CLP Classifications which are, in brief:
 Physical: Oxidising, Explosive, Flammable, Gases
 Human Health: Corrosive, Toxic, “Harmful”, Carcinogens etc.
 Environment
 Mixtures, e.g. Paint mixtures, which may contain one or more hazardous chemicals, must be self-classified and labelled accordingly.

Nigel gave comprehensive advice for those organisations dealing with chemicals on how to prepare for CLP which included the following steps:
 Identify your Roles and Obligations
 Create an Inventory of all Substances & Mixtures
 Ensure Expertise - in-house or Consultant
 Check all Substances’ Identities
 Gather all Information
 Examine, Evaluate

And he informed the group that the database is being established and maintained by ECHA and will be on the ECHA website in 2011.

New Hazard and Precautionary Statements
He clarified that the existing Risk and Safety Phrases will be replaced under the new system by Hazard Statements and Precautionary Statements which are somewhat different.   He also covered CLP Labelling and Packaging briefly and explained the use of new pictograms, moving away from the familiar orange / black label to a white diamond with red outline, with a black symbol inside it.  Some symbols will be very similar to our existing system with one or two new ones, e.g. compressed gas symbol and “harmful” (exploding person) symbol.

Chemical Risk Assessment
Nigel also emphasised that when undertaking a chemical risk assessment, the information on the Label and in the SDS must be considered.

Overall it was a comprehensive whistle-stop tour of CLP, SDS and associated topics. The audience listened attentively and his presentation was followed by a short lively question and answer session.

Mary Darlington, CFIOSH

Thursday 22 April 2010

The Ireland Branch (South East region) will host a free seminar on ‘Farm health and safety from an international perspective’ in conjunction with Teagasc, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority.

The seminar, which will take place on Tuesday 11 May at Kildalton College, Piltown, is designed to increase the level of support that IOSH gives to members working in the rural industries sector in Ireland. It’s also hoped that the event will enable the Irish rural industries sector to forge ties internationally, in order to share experiences and best practice.

Speaking at the conference will be:

•  Pat Griffin, Senior Inspector with the Health and Safety Authority (HSA)
• John MacNamara, National Health and Safety Officer for Teagasc
• Ms Aoife Osborne from the HSA and a Walsh Fellow in Occupational Health and
• Dr David Knowles, Safety and Environment Safety Manager for the Agricultural Development and Advisory Service (ADAS) Group.

Norita Robinson, IOSH’s Ireland Development Manager, said:

“I have a particular interest in this event because I’m from a farming background myself. Farming accidents are a major issue – agriculture had the highest fatality rate than any other economic sector in Ireland with 11 fatal injuries in 2009. I hope this event will help to increase the awareness of health and safety issues in the farming industry, as well as educating people about how they can make their work safer.”

Booking is essential for this event. To book a place, please contact Sean Duggan.

For more information about the event or anything to do with IOSH Ireland Branch activities please contact Norita Robinson.

Friday 23 April 2010

Health and safety professionals in Ireland will now be able to study the Diploma in Safety, Health and Welfare at Work which has been accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) - the world's largest body for health and safety professionals at The Centre for Adult Continuing Education, University College Cork, Ireland.

Launching their new adult education programme on 21 April 2010, The Centre for Adult Continuing Education aims to ensure students have a successful experience in the classroom by offering flexible approaches to learning which range from exams and written assignments to practical and creative projects.

Norita Robinson, IOSH Ireland Development Manager was delighted The Centre for Adult Continuing Education will be teaching the IOSH accredited Diploma. She said:

“Studying for a qualification at any stage in your life is hard work, but when you’re working it can be even more difficult. I’m pleased that The Centre for Adult Continuing Education at University College Cork is offering a programme which meets the needs of adult learners.

“Health and safety professionals studying the IOSH accredited Diploma will gain a lot from this course, not only do they have the piece of mind knowing that they’re studying a quality course, but they’ll get international recognition for their qualification and be able to join IOSH as a Graduate IOSH member.” She added.

For more information about the The Centre for Adult Continuing Education, University College Cork, Ireland visit their website. For more information about IOSH, please contact Norita Robinson.