CIS Newsletter

No. 204
September 2006


CIS Newsletter celebrates 18 years & still going strong!
Bringing news to over 140 countries in the CIS Network!


Contents

  1. Editorial
  2. Timetable 2006 Annual Meeting and Security Arrangements
  3. CIS Workshop, Wednesday, 13 September 2006 - details of programme
  4. News from around the world - Belgium, Canada, European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Germany, ILO, Japan, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Pakistan, Singapore, Tunisia, UK and USA
  5. OSHE websites to explore
  6. Diary of Events

Editorial

Dear CIS Colleagues

The CIS Annual Meeting and Workshop is almost here - Wednesday - Friday, 13 -15 September 2006, Geneva, Switzerland. Because we have had really long advance notice of the date of the meeting many more people have been able to obtain permission to attend - so it is there is a very good attendance level. The meeting promises to be very active and interesting. There is still time to notify CIS HQ that you are going to attend. If you have NOT yet informed that you are travelling to Geneva please could you urgently let CIS know email Gabor Sandi sandi@ilo.org Annick Virot virot@ilo.org and sp@sheilapantry.com.

PLEASE DO READ THIS NEWSLETTER FOR DETAILS OF TIMING AND LOCATION FOR THE MEETINGS/WORKSHOP.

Nb You should have received Gabor Sandi's details and these SECURITY DETAILS to get into the ILO buildings are included in this edition for your convenience.

Remember at the CIS meeting we will also be saying farewell to Dr Jukka Takala, who will be taking up his new job as Director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. I am sure that you all would like to give him your good wishes at the CIS meeting - we shall be holding a special lunch for Jukka on Friday, 15 September 2006. If any of you wish to bring a token of food/savoury/sweet speciality of your country (that will travel and keep) for the lunch - they will make a very welcome contribution.

Remember that your News in the CIS Newsletter goes to over 140 countries and gets re-used in other magazines and websites. CIS Newsletters on the web are getting more and more used... With many hundreds of hits per month... ...Publicity means... tell them (would be customers as well as existing customers of your Information services), tell them and tell them again...

Every one is mega busy but please make time to read the contents of this Newsletter - it is amazing how far it reaches - after every edition I get messages from outside of the CIS network from people who want to receive it on a regular basis. I know that everyone is very mega busy, short of time and finance of course - but hopefully you find the items in the CIS Newsletter are worth investing some time - if only to scan through the items and find out what is happening in this wider OSH world of ours. And perhaps make a Newsletter of your own from it and from information in OSH UPDATE.

Many thanks to you who have sent emails and news - these are always gratefully received and are used as soon as possible.

Remember you can see CIS Newsletter on the web site www.sheilapantry.com/cis where back issues are stored.

Remember >>>> Surviving in 2006... By promotion, publicity and telling the World that CIS and its network exists!

All good wishes to you, your families and your colleagues.

Sheila Pantry, OBE

85 The Meadows, Todwick, Sheffield S26 1JG, UK
Tel: +44 1909 771024
Fax: +44 1909 772829
Email: sp@sheilapantry.com
www.oshworld.com
www.sheilapantry.com
www.shebuyersguide.com
www.oshupdate.com


Timetable for CIS Workshop, AGM and Social Events

Wednesday, 13 September 2006 Workshop in the Training Pavillion, ILO
Registration 08.30 - 09.15
Start 09.30 - 18.00 with breaks

CIS delegates may wish to join together for an evening meal on Wednesday night. To be discussed at the meeting.

Thursday, 14 September 2006 - CIS AGM Day 1
Registration 08.30 - 09.15
Start 09.30 - 17.00 with breaks

Thursday Evening Dinner is being arranged by CIS HQ staff.

NB Dinner to be paid for by delegates
Details - where and at what time will be announced at the CIS meeting.

Friday, 15 September 2006 - CIS AGM Day 2
Registration 08.30 - 09.15
Start 09.30 - 12.30

There will be a lunchtime party to say farewell to Dr Jukka Takala
CIS delegates may wish to contribute some food items from their own country.
All invited - free of charge

Close of meeting expected 17.00

Some CIS delegates are staying over on Friday night - so perhaps they will wish to join together for an evening meal. To be discussed at the meeting.


News from the ILO CIS HQ re the CIS 2006 meeting

Dear Colleagues,

This short note is to remind you that the 44th annual Meeting of CIS National and Collaborating Centres will take place at ILO Headquarters in Geneva, on 14 and 15 of September 2006. This meeting will be preceded, on 13 September, by a one-day hands-on training session on the use of information tools in OSH, including those of CIS. The Workshop registration is from 08.30 and the training will start promptly at 09.30.

The representatives of the following countries have so far confirmed their participation in the meeting and in the training session:

Argentina (1), Bahrain (1), Belgium (1), Canada (3), Egypt (1), Ethiopia (1), Finland (1), France (1), Georgia (2), Israel (1), Japan (1), Korea (2), Netherlands (1), Nigeria (1), Poland (1), Portugal (2), Romania (1), Russia (2), Singapore (2), Syria (3), Tanzania (2), Thailand (2), Tunisia (1), Uganda (2), Vietnam (1), Zimbabwe (1).

Observers from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work and the World Health Organization have also confirmed their participation.

As you can see, we expect a record number of participants and we would be very happy to welcome you at this meeting. We count on your participation, more especially, as it will be the occasion for the CIS Centres to say goodbye to Jukka Takala, who will take up the post of director of the European Agency of Safety and Health at work in Bilbao as from September 15, 2006.

We remain at your disposal for any further information.

Best regards.

Gabor Sandi
Head, CIS

Annick Virot
CIS Centres Coordinator


Hotel accommodation for CIS Meeting

For some time I have been warning that booking into hotels could be a problem because of the many other conferences and meetings taking place in Geneva the week of our meeting.

CIS HQ suggest the following hotels in the town of FERNEY VOLTAIRE, France which is about 15 minutes from the ILO HQ.

Hotel Star Geneve Aéroport
Tel. 04 50 40 52 59
Fax: 04 50 40 52 74
E-mail: stars-geneve@jjwhotels.com
Prix single room (one person) EUR 42.30 - Pt. Déj. EUR 7.00
1 SINGLE disponible du 12 au 16.09

HOTEL DE FRANCE
Tél: 04 50 40 63 87
Fax: 04 50 40 47 27
Prix single room: EUR 65.00 - Pt. Déj. EUR 8.50

HOTEL MEDIAN GENEVE AEROPORT
Ch. de Colovrey
F-01210 FERNEY VOLTAIRE
Tél. 04 50 28 00 50
Fax: 04 50 42 88 93
E-mail: median-geneve@jjwhotels.com
Prix single room: EUR 79.80; Pt. Déj. EUR 10.00
One single room available from 12 to 16 Sep. 2006

Hôtel Bellevue
Tél. 04 50 40 58 68
Fax. 04 50 40 58 68
No E-mail
Price single room (one person) EUR 38.00 (with shower in the room)
OR EUR 29.00 (shower outside the room)
Breakfast: EUR 4.70
One single room available from 12 to 15.09 (not on 16.09)


Details of the Workshop and CIS meeting in Geneva

44th annual Meeting of CIS National and Collaborating Centres, which will take place at ILO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland on Thursday 14 and Friday 15 September 2006.

The meeting will be preceded on 13 September 2006, for those who are interested, by a one-day hands-on computers training session on the use of new information resources in OSH, kindly organized by Sheila Pantry.

The Meeting will be held in Meeting Room IV at the R3 level of the ILO Building. Simultaneous interpretation will be offered between English and French.

Room IV at the level «R3 Sud», at the other end of the building from where you entered it.

The provisional agenda of the CIS annual meeting is as follows:

Thursday, 14 September 2006 - registration 08.30 - 09.15
Start 09.30

Friday, 15 September 2006

Please note that the time devoted to the presentation of Reports by CIS Centres should be kept to a bare minimum. We respectfully ask Centres to limit their presentation to about 5 minutes, enough time for a very brief overview of their activities in the past year, with a special mention of new or modified activities if any. As usual, CIS welcomes the submission of longer reports in printed or electronic format, and will install them on its web site, if possible.

If you intend to attend the Meeting, please inform the CIS Secretariat at the address given below, specifying in addition if you will also participate in the hands-on training session offered on Wednesday, 13 September 2006.

As in past years, CIS is unable to contribute financially to the participation of Centre representatives at its meetings.

Our secretariat will be happy to help you find accommodation in Geneva. We shall also send information about how to get from the airport to downtown Geneva, as well as other practical matters, to all those who confirm their participation.

Your confirmation should be sent by e-mail to: CISCENTRES@ilo.org.

Alternatively, you can send it by mail to: Gabor Sandi, Head, CIS, International Labour Office, 4, route des Morillons, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland


Extra Security Information for those Attending The CIS Meeting...
Please DO read this note!!!

This is a follow-up e-mail addressed to all those who have notified us of their attendance at the the 44th annual Meeting of CIS National and Collaborating Centres, to be held in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday 14 and Friday 15 September 2006. Many of you have also signalled to us that you will be attending on Wednesday, 13 September, the hands-on training session on the use of information tools in OSH, organized by Mrs. Sheila Pantry.

The following are the security arrangements now in place in the ILO.

Normally, you will arrive at the ILO by bus («BIT» bus stop). From the bus stop you should follow the arrows showing directions into the ILO. You will enter the building through the staff garage, then go up two levels by using an escalator (or the stairs).

At this point you will arrive at level «R2-Nord», where you will have to ask a guard for a visitor's badge. He will issue the badge to you in exchange for your passport. This badge will be necessary in order to pass the turnstiles at the entrance into the building. When you wish to leave the building, you will have to do everything in reverse pass the turnstiles, turn in your badge and get your passport back. You will have to follow this procedure every day you spend at the ILO.

If you arrive by taxi, you should ask to be dropped at the main entrance (gate 3). You will have to go down a set of stairs to arrive at the «R2-Nord» level, from where the procedure is the same as described above.

The CIS Meeting on 14 and 15 September will be in room IV at the level «R3 Sud», at the other end of the building from where you entered it.

HOW TO GET TO THE TRAINING CENTRE PAVILLION

The hands-on training session on Wednesday, 13 September, will take place in a separate building, the Pavillion, a short walking distance from the ILO. Before you go there you should obtain a badge at the «R2-Nord» entrance, the same way as if you were going to get into the ILO proper.

With your badge, take the stairs one level down to reach the «P2» parking level. There are signs (in white letters over a blue background) all the way to the Pavillon. You will need your badge to enter the building.

If you get lost, call the CIS Secretariat at (+022) 799-6740 (or internal ILO number 6740).

Do not hesitate to contact us for further information.

Best regards, Gabor Sandi, Head, CIS

Note: Those who have not yet indicated whether or not they would like to participate in the training session scheduled on 13 September are requested to inform us as soon as possible.


News about the CIS Information Workshop, Wednesday, 13 September 2006 starting at 09.30 at the ILO TRAINING CENTRE PAVILLION, Geneva

The CIS meeting will be preceded on Wednesday, 13 September 2006 by a one-day hands-on computers training session on the use of new information resources in occupational safety and health.

There will be a room full of computers for the delegates to use to explore these services.
The whole training day
aims to build on existing knowledge and skills and show how to use these new services to the advantage of CIS Centres wherever they are in the world.

The Workshop programme

Registration 08.30 - 09.15
Welcome by CIS Staff

09.30 - 09.45 Session 1 - Short Introduction to the day by Sheila Pantry

09.45 - 11.00 Session 2 - New Information sources and including searching for toxicology information by Irja Laamanen

Practical session

11.00 - 11.15 Short Break

11.15 - 12.30 OSH UPDATE - introducing this new service by Sheila Pantry

Practical session

12.30 - 13.30 Lunch

13.30 - 14.45 New Safework Bookshelf by Roman Litvyakov

Practical session

14.45 - 15.00 Short Break

15.00 - 16.15 Creating new services by Barbara Szczepanowska

16.15 - 16.30 Short Break

16.30 - 18.00 CIS services, by CIS staff members

18.00 Summary and Close of workshop

Learning Objectives

At the completion of the day participants will have:

The Workshop is aimed at:

CIS OSH Information managers responsible for information dissemination and services who wish to improve their services. Invest your time in attending! There are many new things to be learned.

This is a free of charge workshop given by experienced practitioners - Irja Laamanen - Finland, Roman Litvyakov - ILO Russia, Barbara Szczepanowska, Poland, Sheila Pantry, UK and members of the CIS Team in Geneva.

How to register

If you wish to attend this free workshop, please send your name as soon as possible to Gabor Sandi, sandi@ilo.org Annick Virot virot@ilo.org Sheila Pantry sp@sheilapantry.com


News from Canada

The Grand Opening of the Centre for Health and Safety Innovation (CHSI), September 20, 2006

IAPA (Industrial Accident Prevention Association) in Ontario, Canada pooled its resources with E&USA (Electrical & Utilities Safety Association), OSSA (Ontario Service Safety Alliance) and THSAO (Transportation Health and Safety Association of Ontario) to create a central meeting place for health and safety partners to exchange knowledge, learning and innovation. The official grand opening of the newly-constructed Centre for Health & Safety Innovation (CHSI) will take place on September 20, 2006 at 10.00 am.

The Grand Opening ceremonies will include presentations by health and safety organizations and industry partners, remarks from government dignitaries and community partners, live entertainment, and tours of the state-of-the-art, 45,000 square foot facility.

The CHSI looks forward to welcoming you in its new home. Ask for your personal invitation at: Centre for Health and Safety Innovation (CHSI), 5110 Creekbank Road,, Mississauga, ON L4W OA1, Canada | Tel: 00 1 905 219 00 44


Health & Safety Canada 2007: 16-18th Metro Toronto Convention Centre

Call for Poster Abstracts

IAPA invites poster abstracts for Health & Safety Canada 2007 IAPA Conference & Trade Show.

Health & Safety Canada is the largest event of its kind in Canada and the second largest health and safety event in North America. Please see: www.iapa.ca


IALI (International Association of Labour Inspection) Conference 2007

This conference will be hosted by IALI, the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Accident Prevention Association, in cooperation with the International Labour Organization. For further information on Health & Safety Canada 2007 as well as the IALI (International Association of Labour Inspection) Conference, please see: www.iapa.ca

For further information please contact Michael Dyet, Marketing Specialist | e-mail: mdyet@iapa.ca | Telephone: + 00 1 905-614-4272 | Fax: + 00 1 905-614-1414


News from ETUI-REHS Health and Safety Department, Belgium

New scope for the Community health and Safety at work strategy 2007-2012
Laurent Vogel and Pascal Paoli

The European Commission will unveil its new health and safety at work strategy for 2007-2012 in the coming months. Europe's trade unions mean to help inform the debate through a document just published by the ETUI-REHS Health and Safety Department.

The brochure sets out a list of union demands centred on two big risks: musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and chemicals. Labour unions are against any break from introducing new legislation, calling instead for tighter European laws at a time when key directives are being revised. Another core union demand is the right to collective representation in health and safety for all workers.

Available in English and French

More information on: http://hesa.etui-rehs.org/uk/newsevents/newsfiche.asp?pk=659

Géraldine Hofmann, Assistant, Information and Publications, Health & Safety Department, ETUI-REHS - European Trade Union Institute for Research, Education and Health & Safety, 5 bd du Roi Albert II - B-1210 Brussels | Tel.: +32 2 224 05 63 (60) | Fax: +32 2 224 05 61 | Email: ghofmann@etui-rehs.org | www.etui-rehs.org/hesa

Since 1 April 2005, TUTB, ETUI and ETUCO have merged into the European Trade Union Institute for Research, Education and Health and Safety (ETUI-REHS)

Depuis le 1er avril 2005, le BTS, l'ISE et l'ASE ont fusionné en un Institut syndical européen pour la recherche, l'éducation et la santé et sécurité (ETUI-REHS)


Promotion of the ratification of Convention 187 and of ILO OSH key Conventions

ILO is pleased to announce that the newly adopted Convention (C.187) and Recommendation (R. 197) concerning the promotional framework for occupational safety and health are now available from ILO Headquarters in print format.

To receive copies please send a mail to the CIS Secretariat at: CIS@ilo.org indicating the number of copies and the linguistic version required.

CIS and SafeWork reminds you to promote the ratification of this instrument within your constituencies. Please read the CIS News item on the subject on the CIS Website at: www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/oshworld/news/ilc-06end.htm

You may also wish to browse on the page of the SafeWork Website on the Convention at: www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/promoframe.htm

and read the CIS News item on the ratification campaign of key OSH conventions organized by ACTRAV at: www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/oshworld/news/actrav.htm


CIS web site contains Exposure Limits

This is to let you know of a new product on the CIS site. We now provide access to chemical exposure limits for various countries that are available on the Internet. We currently have information for 28 countries and hope to add more as further information becomes available.

The CIS Exposure Limits site has recently been updated to take account of new data. Mainly affects entries for the European Union, France and Germany and the addition of Norway.

www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/products/explim.htm

Brenda Dardelin
ILO/CIS Geneva


News from Singapore

Annual Report 2005 - Workplace Safety and Health - a new framework

Singapore's safety standards have improved steadily over the last 20 years. However, industrial accident frequency rates have stagnated at around 2.2 industrial accidents per million man-hours worked in the last few years. If we were to continue with more of the same strategy, it is unlikely we will be able to achieve a breakthrough in safety performance. Hence, in March 2005, Minister announced that the Occupational Safety and Health Division (OSHD) will adopt a new OSH framework to make possible quantum improvements in the safety and health of workers. The target is to halve the 4.9 fatality per 100,000 workers to 2.5 by 2015. This will put us on par with the current top ten developed countries with good safety records.

The new OSH framework will adopt three guiding principles. First, we need to reduce risks at source by requiring all stakeholders to eliminate or minimise the risks they create. The second principle is for the industry to take greater ownership of OSH standards and outcomes. The third principle is to prevent accidents through higher penalties for poor safety management.

To support the new OSH framework, the new Workplace Safety and Health Act (WSHA), which enshrines the three key principles, was first read in Parliament on 17 October 2005. (The Act came into effect on 1 March 2006.) This Act replaces the old Factories Act. The key changes in the new legal framework include: increase in scope to cover all workplaces in phases, shifting mindsets towards comprehensive risk management systems, assigning responsibilities to a range of stakeholders who create and have control over safety and health risks to take reasonably practicable measures to protect the people affected, higher penalties for poor safety management and performance, and enhanced enforcement.

To better handle the new challenges ahead under the new regulatory system, the Ministry restructured OSHD on 1 August 2005. The new division will focus on capability building internally to better equip our officers in helping companies adopt the new framework and externally to guide the various stakeholders on internalizing the value of the new framework. More funds were allocated by the Ministry of Finance to OSHD for our expansion in terms of new staff and new training programmes. This will enable us to put in place intervention programmes that will focus on detecting systemic weaknesses and giving companies feedback on how to enhance their systems and raise competencies. Programmes will also be put in place to upgrade safety professionals on how to operate under the new performance-based legislation.

Under the new framework, everyone of us plays an important role in improving OSH standards in Singapore. We will also continue to work closely with our key stakeholders to eliminate death, injuries and ill-health at all workplaces. This annual report showcases the efforts of my Division in 2005. I hope it will provide some insights into the work of OSHD and the need for greater public-private partnerships to make Singapore a safer and healthier place to work in.

Our Vision - a safe and healthy workplace for everyone; and a country renowned for best practices in Occupational Safety and Health.

Our Goal - To halve the current occupational fatality rate within 10 years and attain standards of the current top ten developed countries with good safety records.

Ho Siong Hin, Divisional Director, Ministry of Manpower, 18 Havelock Road, 03-2 Singapore 059764 | Email: mom_osh@mom.gov.sg | www.mom.gov.sg


News from Annick Virot, CIS HQ

An integrated action plan for workers' organizations for the promotion of occupational safety, health and the environment (OSHE)

This note is a follow up of the training session I was in charge of at the Trade Unions Training on OSHE, including HIV/AIDS (A300605), on 10 July 2006. It was compiled mainly on the basis of the five pillars of the Global Strategy on Occupational Safety and Health adopted by the International Labour Conference at its 91st session, 2003 in Geneva, namely:

  1. Promotion, awareness raising and advocacy
  2. ILO instruments (promotion of key OSH conventions in particular of C. 187)
  3. Technical assistance and cooperation
  4. Knowledge development, management and dissemination
  5. Collaboration at the national and international level (networking and partnerships)

1. Promotion, awareness raising and advocacy

2. ILO instruments on OSH

3. Technical assistance and cooperation

4. Knowledge development, management and dissemination

5. National and international collaboration


News Briefs

From Japan

Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association (JISHA) Newsletter
Safety and Health in Japan July 2006

Includes: Risk Assessment of Chemicals in the workplace; Activities of Industrial Safety and Health organisations Labour Administrative Activities; Research and Statistics - including fatal; and serious industrial accidents in 2005; One out of every three regular employees take their office work home; JIHSA research report compiled to promote a safety culture. Also includes a note about Japan's First Graduate School for Safety Specialist established.
Contact: Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association, 5-35-1 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0014 Japan | Tel/Fax: +81 3 3454 4596 | Email: kokusai@jisha.or.jp | www.jisha.or.jp

From Pakistan

Centre for the Improvement of Working Conditions and Environment, Lahore (Ciwce)
The 2005 annual report from CIWC&E shows a wide ranage of activities including the prestigious Tech Award of Innovations for technology benefiting humanity; major facilities for assessment of occupational and general environment; training and education programme; booklets, safety signs and posters produced and much more. This 71 page report in English is available from: S A Awan, Director, CIWC & E (Near Chandni Chowk) Township, Lahore, Pakistan | Tel: 00 92 42 5123537/5150042 | Fax: 00 92 425123537 | Email: awosh@brain.net.pk | www.ciwce.org.pk

From Tunisia

The latest edition - No. 38 July 2006 of Sante et Securite au Travail (SST) from the Tunisian Institute and CIS Centre is a Special edition on Le Bruit et les Vibrations: impacts et strategies de prevention
Contact: ISST, 5 Bd M Khaznadar, 1007, Tunis, Tunisia | Tel: +71 561 636 Fax: +71 571 902 | Email: DG.isst@Email.ati.tn

From the UK

The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
Control of Work

Understanding why a process is carried out is just as important as knowing what is involves. To encourage this approach to operational safety, the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) has again collaborated with BP to produce this booklet Control of Work in the Process Safety Series.
The book outlines the principles behind the twelve elements of Control of Work focusing on the safe execution of workplace activities and providing a formal and consistent approach to managing risk.
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
Control of Work 2006. 86 pages. GBP22.00
ICHEME, Davis Building, 165-189 Railway terrace, Rugby CV21 3HQ, UK | Tel: +44 (0)1788 578 214 | Fax: +44 I(0) 1788 560 833 www.icheme.org/shop

Learning and Skills Council (UK)
A pocket guide to supervising

This booklet is intended to highlight some of the main health and safety considerations when taking a young person into the workplace.
2006. 14 pages
Learning and Skills Council, National Office, Cheylesmore House, Quinton Road, Coventry CV1 2WT, UK | Tel + 0845 019 4170 | Fax +44 (0) 24 7682 3675 | www.lsc.gov.uk

Learning and Skills Council (UK)
Be safe!

An introductory guide to health and safety.
2006 27 pages and 17 page workbook in one booklet.
Learning and Skills Council, National Office, Cheylesmore House, Quinton Road, Coventry CV1 2WT, UK | Tel + 0845 019 4170 | Fax +44 (0) 24 7682 3675 | www.lsc.gov.uk

Scriptographic Publications Ltd
The 2006 catalogue from Scriptographic Publications Ltd celebrates 25 years in business and contains a wide range of booklets and posters that will be useful in any workplace. Clear and simple ways to get the health and safety message to the workforce - latest editions includes: Employees' Guide to Manual Handling and What you should know about manual handling.
Contact: Scriptographic Publications, Charwell House, Wilsom Road, Alton, Hampshire GU34 2PP, United Kingdom | Tel: (within UK) 0800 028 5670 | Tel: (outside UK) +44 8701 609 220 | Fax: (within UK) 08701 609 219 | Fax: (outside UK) +44 8701 609 219 | Email: sales@scriptographic.co.uk


News from the UK

Job cuts at UK safety body HSE

Prospect, the union representing 1,750 inspectors, scientists and other professionals in the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has condemned an announcement that government spending restrictions in the safety body will force it to axe up to 350 posts.

The announcement coincides with a new report, published in Hazards magazine, that highlights how at the same time HSE is implementing its new strategy to move away from hands-on workplace inspections, figures for fatalities and major injury rates across the UK are rising.

In a notice to staff, HSE chief executive Geoffrey Podger said the move to reduce the total number of staff by between 250 and 350 posts by 2008 and cut programme spend was necessary to remain in budget.

But Prospect fears that this will only be the tip of the iceberg coming on the back of real terms cuts in HSE's budget since 2002, and in the face of likely further cuts given the 5% reduction target identified for its parent body, the Department of Work and Pensions, in the last comprehensive spending review.

Prospect HSE branch chair Steven Kay said: "While we welcome the commitment to try to achieve these losses through natural wastage and voluntary redundancies, any reduction in HSE staff numbers will inevitably impact on the drive to improve safety in UK workplaces. Evidence shows it is inspection backed by enforcement that is the most effective way of ensuring employers comply with their health and safety responsibilities.

"It will result in a drop in the number of prosecutions and inspections undertaken and could see a further restriction of the accident selection criteria used to prompt an investigation as HSE tries to maintain the 60:40 balance it seeks to strike between preventive and reactive work. Less investigations will mean workers that suffer horrendous injuries will not get justice."

HSE programmes also identified as casualties of the cutbacks include measures introduced as part of the executive's strategic shift away from inspection and enforcement in favour of education and preventative advice, announced in 2003.

The Hazards report shows that even before this latest blow, the time spent by HSE staff in direct contact with employers has fallen in all of HSE's divisions bar one despite a growth in the number of workplaces. In 2001/02 the average frequency of workplace inspections was once every seven years. Figures for 2006 suggest this has risen to every 13 years.

While HSE's Hazardous Installation Division (HID) bucked the trend, Hazards attributes this to the "HID inspection and investigation surge after the December 2005 Buncfield explosion."

Prospect members in HSE anticipate a corresponding crash in activity over the coming year, as inspectors take related time-off-in-lieu, overtime payments drain budgets further and inspectors are seconded from other divisions to meet the shortfall. The union is calling for government intervention to reduce the financial pressure crippling HSE. www.prospect.org.uk/news/newsstory.php?news=368

To view the Hazards report visit www.hazards.org/commissionimpossible/comeclean.htm or contact the editor, Rory O'Neill on Tel: +44 (0)1535 210462.


News from the UK

Awards to recognise behavioural safety leaders

RoSPA and behavioural-safety specialists Ryder-Marsh* are seeking businesses and organisations that lead the way in avoiding accidents by eliminating human error.

They have teamed up to promote the Behavioural Safety and Best Practice Awards, which show that companies that have effective health and safety management systems in place can further enhance their performance by focusing on behavioural issues.

Entrants are required to describe clearly the behavioural safety initiatives or processes which they have established in their organisation.

All successful participants will receive a certificate of achievement. The best three, selected by an independent judging panel, will each be invited to make a short presentation during the Behavioural Safety User Conference on December 6. Delegates at the event at the International Centre, Telford, will vote for which entry should win the Allan Poole Trophy for Outstanding Achievement.

Closing date for entries is October 16. The conference and awards are supported by Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health and the Health and Safety Executive.

Submissions must demonstrate a robust health and safety management systems approach and specifically must address the 'Six Pillars' of Behavioural Safety: workforce ownership, measurement (and goal-setting), root-cause analysis, management and supervision, awareness raising, and communication and feedback.

Last year more than 30 businesses were honoured for the way they managed behavioural safety.

Organisations wishing to enter or attend - Tel: 0870 777 2131 | email: awards@rospa.com

Roger Bibbings, RoSPA Occupational Safety Adviser, said: "Addressing behavioural safety plays an increasingly important part in sustaining safe and healthy working. Correctly applied, it can add significant value and boost workforce and manager involvement throughout the organisation."

*Ryder-Marsh - European leaders in the field of behavioural safety. Tim Marsh, Managing Director of Ryder-Marsh, was one of the leaders of the initial research project into behavioural safety in the early 1990s. Ryder Marsh conceived this open learning, networking and best practice event in 1998 as an extension of this research. It has become the largest of its type in Europe.

www.rospa.com


News from Germany

Germany's Statutory accident insurance premiums fall once again - Numbers of occupational accidents reach record lows

In Germany in 2005, the average statutory accident insurance premium once again reached the historic low of 1.31%. The number of accidents at work in trade and industry in Germany has fallen once again, the Berufsgenossenschaften (BGs) report in their annual statistics. This can be seen from the financial results of the BGs for 2005, which were released recently in Berlin. The number of reportable occupational accidents in 2005 also fell last year to a record low, of 801,834. This figure equates to 40,000 fewer accidents than in 2004, and almost 260,000 fewer than in 2001.

"Both the stability in the premiums and the reduced numbers of accidents are substantially the result of decades of prevention work," says Dr. Joachim Breuer, General Manager of the Federation of Institutions for Statutory Accident Insurance and Prevention (HVBG). "Should the government wish to reform such a successful system, it must take care not to destroy the foundation of this success." Year by year, the BGs have ensured stability and efficient, continued development of the system by their own efforts. "This fact must finally be acknowledged," says Breuer.

Compared to 2004, employers had to pay around 164.6 million euro less in 2005 to the BGs, the institutions for statutory occupational accident insurance and prevention, in order to insure their employees against occupational and commuting accidents and against occupational disease. The total volume of contributions, the contribution target, thus fell to 8.77 billion euro.

The BGs' premiums are levied retrospectively for the previous year according to the adjustable contribution procedure. This procedure spreads the contribution target over the member companies of the BGs according to the contribution assessment elements (risk category of the company, total employee remuneration in the reporting year, surcharges or reductions in premiums where applicable). The employees are not involved in financing the accident insurance system.

Risk of occupational accident continues to fall The absolute number of occupational accidents was not the only statistic to fall in the previous year. The corresponding occupational accident rate also fell, by 2.2% to around 27 accidents per 1,000 equivalent full employees. The accident risk fell particularly strongly in the following sectors of the economy: mining (-10.7%), metals (-7.4%) and precision mechanics/electronics (-6.7%).

In the figures as a whole, the sharpest percentage drop in 2005 concerned fatal occupational accidents, which fell by 8.7% to 589 (2004: 645). The number of new occupational accident pensions fell to 17,414 (-4.0%).

Conversely, the number of commuting accidents remained steady: in 2005, 151,641 accidents occurred during journeys between home and workplace, a figure marginally higher than that for 2004 (151,330). The risk of a commuting accident fell slightly, to 4.5 accidents per 1,000 insured individuals. Fatal commuting accidents numbered 495, thereby almost equalling the previous year's value. The number of new pensions resulting from commuting accidents fell by 2.8%, to 6,099.

Occupational diseases: the number of suspected cases continues to fall The downward trend in occupational diseases continued in 2005, to a figure of 53,576, equating to a drop of 4.1% over the previous year. An occupational disease was formally recognized in 14,920 cases (-5.8%). In 5,206 cases, this formal recognition was associated with the beginning of corresponding pension payments. This figure corresponds to an increase of 9.6%. In a further 8,740 cases, the origin of the disease was found to be occupational in nature, but the specific insurance provisions governing formal recognition of an occupational disease were not satisfied. In these cases, too, comprehensive services and measures for individual prevention and medical rehabilitation were delivered where applicable.

2,480 fatalities resulting from occupational disease were recorded by the BGs in 2005. Of these, 1,982 fatal diseases were caused by inorganic dusts, in particular asbestos. A comparison with previous years is not possible at the present time: quality control procedures have revealed that in previous years, not all fatalities resulting from occupational disease were recorded (in purely statistical terms). Re-recording the data for the previous years is expected to be completed in the autumn.

Also, if you are interested in news from German accident insurance institutions, visit the English news section at www.dguv.de/content/news

Stefan Boltz, Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften/Federation of Institutions for Statutory Accidence Insurance and Prevention, Albrechtstr. 10 c, 10117 Berlin, Deutschland/Germany | Tel +49-(0)30 - 28 87 63 62 | Fax +49-(0)30 - 28 87 63 70 | Email: stefan.boltz@hvbg.de | www.dguv.de


Annals of Occupational Hygiene online

Annals of Occupational Hygiene vol 50 number 6 is now available on-line, and the contents list is given below. At the end is a list of papers added to the advance access site since the last contents list was circulated.

This issue includes a free-access commentary by Chris Packham on the use of gloves as chemical protection.

The contents list below includes links to the on-line abstracts, which are available free to everyone. BOHS members (and subscribers to the on-line edition) can freely access the full texts from the abstracts. Details of how to register for full-text access are in the members area of the BOHS website www.bohs.org. The print edition is scheduled to be distributed to BOHS members and others shortly.

Almost 1000 not-for-profit institutions in low-income countries receive the on-line Annals free or at heavy discount through an Oxford University Press scheme.

For details see www.oup.co.uk/jnls/devel
Other people can download papers for about 23 US dollars

Trevor Ogden, Editor in Chief, Annals of Occupational Hygiene | http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org | www.bohs.org

Invited Editorial

Some Economic Benefits of REACH
REINHOLD RUHL and HENNING WRIEDT
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 541-544.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/50/6/541?etoc

Commentary (free access)

Gloves as Chemical Protection--Can They Really Work?
CHRIS PACKHAM
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 545-548.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/50/6/545?etoc

Original Articles

Occupational Exposure to Inhalable Wood Dust in the Member States of the European Union
TIMO KAUPPINEN and others
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 549-561.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/50/6/549?etoc

Characterization of Endotoxin and Mouse Allergen Exposures in Mouse Facilities and Research Laboratories
KARIN A. PACHECO and others
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 563-572.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/50/6/563?etoc

Modeling, Estimation and Validation of Cotton Dust and Endotoxin Exposures in Chinese Textile Operations
GEORGE ASTRAKIANAKIS and others
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 573-582.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/50/6/573?etoc

Assessment of Occupational Genotoxic Risk in the Production of Rubber Tyres
BLANCA LAFFON and others
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 583-592.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/50/6/583?etoc

Biological Monitoring for Trimethylbenzene Exposure: A Human Volunteer Study and a Practical Example in the Workplace
K. JONES and others
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 593-598.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/50/6/593?etoc

Urinary Bromide and Breathing Zone Concentrations of 1-Bromopropane from Workers Exposed to Flexible Foam Spray Adhesives
K. W. HANLEY and others
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 599-607.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/50/6/599?etoc

Assessing Isocyanate Exposures in Polyurethane Industry Sectors Using Biological and Air Monitoring Methods
K. S. CREELY and others
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 609-621.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/50/6/609?etoc

Attenuation in Risk Estimates in Logistic and Cox Proportional-Hazards Models due to Group-Based Exposure Assessment Strategy
HYANG-MI KIM, YUTAKA YASUI, and IGOR BURSTYN
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 623-635.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/50/6/623?etoc

Letters to the Editor

Some Economic Benefits of REACH
HENNING WRIEDT and REINHOLD RUHL
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 637.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/50/6/637?etoc

Dermal Absorption of Chlorpyrifos
DAVID T. MAGE
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 638-639.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/50/6/638?etoc
Reply
LAURA GEER and TIMOTHY J. BUCKLEY
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 639.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/50/6/639?etoc

Evaluation of COSHH Essentials for Vapour Degreasing and Bag-Filling Operations
PAUL EVANS and ANDREW GARROD
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 641.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/50/6/641?etoc

Evaluation of the Utility and Reliability of COSHH Essentials
CHRIS MONEY, STEVE BAILEY, MARK SMITH, ALISTAIR HAY, BUD HUDSPITH, DAVID TOLLEY, JOHN DOBBIE, and HEATHER JACKSON
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 642-644.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/50/6/642?etoc
Reply
RACHAEL M. JONES and MARK NICAS
Ann Occup Hyg 2006 50: 643-644.
http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/50/6/643?etoc

A number of article have recently been added to those published on line but awaiting allocation to an issue. They are available on http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/recent

They can already be cited using the system described at http://annhyg.oxfordjournals.org/papfaq


News from the USA

NIOSH and DuPont advance nanotechnology safety and health

The US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co. will collaborate on work to evaluate current product performance, test methods, and research gaps related to personal protective equipment used to reduce occupational exposures to nanoparticles. The agreement came in a memorandum of understanding signed in June. The agreement is part of NIOSH's larger strategic program to advance research on the occupational safety and health applications and implications of nanotechnology in the workplace. This agreement is effective through December 2007.

Four new US NIOSH mining-related publications are now available

Information Circular 9486. Handbook for Methane Control in Mining, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number 2006-127, can be accessed at www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/pubs/pubreference/outputid1779.htm

Technology News. EZ-Up Curtain Stoppings: A Practical Solution for Directing Ventilation Airflows in Large-opening Metal/Nonmetal Mines, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number 2006-137, can be accessed at www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/pubs/pubreference/outputid1777.htm

Technology News. Super Stopping: A Permanent Solid Stopping for Directing Ventilation Airflows in Large-opening Metal/Nonmetal Mines, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number 2006-134, can be accessed at www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/pubs/pubreference/outputid1776.htm

Report of Investigations 9667. Effectiveness of Selected Diesel Particulate Matter Control Technologies for Underground Mining Applications: Isolated Zone Study, 2003, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number 2006-126, can be accessed at www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/pubs/pubreference/outputid1778.htm


Make my day...

Send Your news to your Editor: sp@sheilapantry.com


Don't forget - your last chance to book for

13-15 September 2006 - CIS Annual Meeting 2006 and Training Workshop, Geneva - see above for details... more in August edition.


News from the International Finance Corporation

Draft IFC EHS Guidelines - public comment period open

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, is currently revising its Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines for industry. There are 65 industry sectors, in addition to one General EHS Guideline.

Each guideline gives recommendations on occupational safety and health, which are supposed to apply when loans are given to companies in developing countries.

The public comment period for draft guidelines is now open.

The EHS Guidelines have become globally applied references for private sector development with their use extending well beyond World Bank Group operations to a diverse external community, such as other international financial institutions, regulators, industry, academics, and commercial banks, including the international banks that have adopted the Equator Principles.

The EHS Guidelines have not been comprehensively updated since 1998, although they were intended to be "living documents" at their inception. Given the broad applicability and use of the EHS Guidelines as reference documents, they must continue to meet internationally-accepted standards on pollution prevention and control, as well as occupational and community health and safety.

Therefore, as part of IFC's integrated policy review to create the IFC Policy and Performance Standards on Social and Environmental sustainability, IFC is undertaking the review and update of the EHS Guidelines. Once the Update is completed the full set of EHS Guidelines will be known as the World Bank Group Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines.

More information can be found at the following link: www.ifc.org/ifcext/sustainability.nsf/Content/EHSGuidelines


News from Japan

Activity Report of JISHA - CIS national Centre in Japan (From September 2005 to August 2006

1. JISHA Events

2. JISHA English printed-materials sent to CIS headquarters:

3. International Cooperation

Promote various types of exchanges with overseas safety and health organizations/institutions.

4. Joint Seminar on Occupational Safety and Health with counterpart of JISHA in FY2005

5. Japan International Center for Occupational Safety and Health (JICOSH)

The following training courses, which had 165 participants, held in FY2005:Safety Management in Construction Work; Zero Accident Activities (KYT) (language: in English); Safety Management and Inspection for Machinery; Zero Accident Activities (KYT) (language: in Spanish); Ergonomics; Safety and Health Education Trainers' Training; Boiler Safety; Management for Hazardous Materials; Zero Accident Activities (KYT) (language: in Mongolia); Safety Assessment of Construction Work Plan for Project Manager; Chemical Management (language: in Chinese); Zero Accident Activities (KYT) (language: in Indonesian)

In FY 2006, the following training courses are held.

6. Group Training Courses jointly with JICA

7. JICA Technical Cooperation Projects

The Project on the Capacity Building of the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health in Malaysia - Dispatch of one expert to the evaluation mission at the end of the project
[Counterpart training program: accepting trainees from Asian countries]
Malaysia (NIOSH): Two trainees
[Field] Chemical Exposure Prevention Measures for Outdoor Work
Ergonomics in the Workplace (Join the group training course)

8. Other


More News from the USA

The US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Three new health hazard evaluation reports are available from NIOSH:


News from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work

The following are new publications from the Agency:

Facts Issue 67: Noise in figures
The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Vía 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
Luxembourg, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, L 2985; 2006; 2pp, OPOCE Catalog Number: TE 6905739ENC
Available in: Español, Čeština, Dansk, Deutsch, Eesti, Ellinika, English, Français, Italiano, Latviešu, Lietuvių, Magyar, Malti, Nederlands, Polski, Português, Slovenčina, Slovenščina, Suomi, Svenska.
http://osha.europa.eu/publications/factsheets/67

FORUM Issue 15 - Promoting occupational safety and health research in the EU
The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Vía 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
Luxembourg, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, L 2985; 2006; 8pp, OPOCE Catalog number: TE7506906ENC
ISBN 9291911747
The two-day seminar was structured around two sessions. The aim of the first session was to elaborate a consensus list of top OSH research priorities for the next five years on the basis of the above-mentioned report and of expert forecasts on emerging OSH risks carried out by the Agency and its Topic Centre. The second session provided the opportunity to bring together representatives from existing EU-wide networks (such as New OSH ERA, PEROSH, and the Agency's Topic Centres) to explore ways of achieving closer cooperation in order to promote the inclusion of OSH issues in FP7 and coordinate possible actions under that scheme.
Available in: Español, Čeština, Dansk, Deutsch, Eesti, Ellinika, English, Français, Italiano, Latviešu, Lietuvių, Magyar, Malti, Nederlands, Polski, Português, Slovenčina, Slovenščina, Suomi, Svenska.
http://osha.europa.eu/publications/forum/15

FORUM Issue 16 - European noise at work summit - 'Stop that noise!'
Closing event of the European Week for Safety and Health at Work 2005 Monday 12 December 2005, Euskalduna Conference
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Vía 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
Luxembourg, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, L 2985; 2006; 12pp, OPOCE Catalog number: TE7506897ENC
ISBN 929500793X
Available in: Español, Čeština, Dansk, Deutsch, Eesti, Ellinika, English, Français, Italiano, Latviešu, Lietuvių, Magyar, Malti, Nederlands, Polski, Português, Slovenčina, Slovenščina, Suomi, Svenska.
European noise at work summit - 'Stop that noise!' summit was jointly organised by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (1) and the United Kingdom Presidency of the European Union (2) as the culmination of the 2005 'Stop that noise!' campaign on the eve of the 2003 noise directive (3) coming into force. EU policymakers, social partners and leading safety and health experts met to consider worker protection from occupational noise and to reward organisations that have already managed to implement effective solutions. The summit aimed to give stakeholders an opportunity to discuss challenges and future strategies for a better control of noise at work and to provide an overview of the different measures and good practices applied across Europe to tackle this issue, with a view to the implementation of the 2003 noise directive in Member States.
http://osha.europa.eu/publications/forum/16


OSHE web sites for you to explore

Aviation Safety : Europe   GERMANY
http://ad.easa.europa.eu

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) now provides direct online access to all European Union (EU) Airworthiness Directives (AD). EASA issues these to the holders of aircraft type certificates whenever design-related safety problems with aircraft in Europe has been identified.

Buncefield Oil depot explosion   UK
www.buncefieldinvestigation.gov.uk

A dedicated website of interest to those looking at the outcomes of the investigation into the UK Buncefield Oil depot explosion. Contains progress reports, impressive images and links to key agencies involved.

Business Continuity   UK
www.continuityforum.org

The Continuity Forum provides independent advice, information and support to the private and public sectors covering all aspects of Business Continuity Management (BCM), Disaster Recovery, Crisis Management, Emergency Planning and Security. An independent non-government organisation (NGO) that specialises in providing practical information, assistance and guidance to organisations of all types needing to create effective BCMt programmes. The Continuity Forum is committed to building the levels of Business Continuity Planning (BCP) and Resilience of organisations internationally, regardless of size or sector, through information, education and the promotion of best practice Business Continuity Management (BCM) and the related disciplines of Crisis Management and Disaster Recovery.The Continuity Forum has created an outstanding network of partners from Government, Regulators and the commercial sector through which we work to promote and broadcast the value of Business Continuity Management (BCM) and build the skills and expertise of organisations of all types.

Emergency Response   UK
www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/InYourHome/Dealingwithemergencies/Preparingforemergencies

This UK Government website has information on how you can help yourself and others in emergencies. A lot of it is based on common sense advice and may seem obvious or familiar to you, but it has saved lives in the past. The text has been arranged so you can access advice tailored to your needs. Covers: What you can do; What businesses can do; What voluntary and community groups can do; What Government is doing; Advice on specific emergencies and links to more information such as UK Resilience, Emergency Planning College, London Prepared etc.

Health and Safety   MALTA
www.ohsa.org.mt

Malta's Occupational Health and Safety Authority Board and the Occupational Health and Safety Authority Executive website gives details of the legislation, publications, courses, frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Methylene Chloride Collection   USA
www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/methylenechloride

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health NIOSH Methylene Chloride information covers a range of information including physical properties, health factors, exposure limits, and monitoring methods used by OSHA - Occupational Safety and Health Association.

Methyl Ethyl Ketone Collection   USA
www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/methylethylketone

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health NIOSH Methyl Ethyl Ketone information covers a range of information including physical properties, health factors, exposure limits, and monitoring methods used by OSHA - Occupational Safety and Health Association.

Risk Assessment   BELGIUM
www.ferma-asso.org

Federation of European Risk Management Associations (FERMA) exists to widen and raise the culture of Risk Management throughout Europe to its members and to the risk management and insurance community. It achieves its aims by promotion and raising awareness of risk management through the media, by information sharing, educational and research projects.


Diary of Events

If you have a seminar, conference or exhibition that you would like to promote - please send details. Also look in www.oshworld.com/diary.html

17-19 September 2006 - European Responsible Care Conference 2006
Holiday Inn, Warsaw, Poland
Contact: Claudine Drossart, Cefic, Brussels, Belgium | Tel: + 32 2 676 72 21 | Email: cdr@cefic.be | www.cefic.org/Media-Centre/Events

19-21 September 2006 - Riskwell 2006: the International Risk and Wellness Conference and Exhibition: A Global Perspective on Enterprise Wide Risk Management through Information, Intelligence and Innovation."
Emperors Palace, Johannesburg, South Africa
Contact: Debby Parsonson, Group Marketing Communications Manager, InVeritas Global Holdings (IGH Group), South Africa | Tel: +27 11 803 2481 | Fax: +27 11 803 1900 | Mobile : +27 84 200 2278 | mail: dparsonson@ighgroup.com | MSM debby@amtriveritas.com | www.ighgroup.com

19-22 September 2006 The Third China International Occupational Safety & Health Exhibition and China International Forum on Work Safety
National Agriculture Exhibition Centre, Beijing, China
Contact: Ms. Nisa Ren | Tel: +86-10-65102751 | Fax: +86-10-65171476 | Email: nisa@mdc.com.cn | www.sino-safework.org.cn

19 September 2006 - REACH and Worker Protection legislation: two complementary pieces of law for improved worker protection?
Brussels, Belgium
Contact: ETUC headquarters, 5, Bvd du Roi Albert II, Brussels, Belgium | Fax: +32 2 224 04 75 | Email: hcipriano@etuc.org | www.etuc.org

20 September 2006 - Hearing Protection Devices and Hearing Conservation Programs
Blackfoot Inn, Calgary, Canada
Contact: Cyd Kladden, Aearo Technologies, 7911 Zionsville Road, Indianapolis IN 46268, USA | Tel: +1 317 692 3066 | Fax: +1 317 692 3116 | Email: seminars@aearo.com

20 September 2006 - CHCS Module 50 "GHS - the basics of the the UN Scheme"
Atlantic Suites, Manchester Airport, Manchester, UK
Contact: Chemical Hazards Communication Society (CHCS), P.O. Box 222, Lymington, Hampshire S042 7GY, UK | Fax: +07000 790 338 | Email: chcs@chcs.org.uk | www.chcs.org.uk

27 September 2006 - Proposed new EU Classification and Labelling Regulation
Manor Hotel, Meridien (between Coventry and Birmingham, CV7 7NH
Contact: Chemical Hazards Communication Society (CHCS), P.O. Box 222, Lymington, Hampshire S042 7GY, UK | Fax: +07000 790 338 | Email: chcs@chcs.org.uk | www.chcs.org.uk

4 October 2006 - BOHS's Autumn 'Hot Topics' Meeting including a presentation by Professor Julian Peto entitled "Observations and speculations on mesothelioma risks in relation to past and present occupational and environmental asbestos exposure in Britain"
Manchester Conference Centre, Manchester, UK
Contact: Anthea Page, Communications Officer, BOHS, 5/6 Melbourne Business Court, Millennium Way, Pride Park, Derby, DE24 8LZ, UK | Tel: +44 (0) 1332 250701 | Email: anthea@bohs.org | www.bohs.org where the full programme is also available.

10 October 2006 - BOHS 'Webinar' COSHH Regulations 15.00 (UK time)
Contact: Anthea Page, Communications Officer, BOHS, 5/6 Melbourne Business Court, Millennium Way, Pride Park, Derby, DE24 8LZ, UK | Tel: +44 (0) 1332 250701 | Email: anthea@bohs.org | Book via the Event Calendar on www.bohs.org where the full programme is also available. The link to the Webinar website and the conference call telephone number are provided directly to those who have registered.

16-17 October 2006 - Institute of Acoustics Autumn Conference 2006 Environmental Noise, WHO, Guidelines, and Mapping
The Oxford Hotel, Oxford, UK
Contact: Linda Canty, Institute of Acoustics, 77A St Pewter's Street, St Albans, Herts AL1 3B, UK | Tel: 01727 848195 | Fax: 01727 850553 | Email: linda.canty@ioa.org.uk | www.ioa.org.uk/events

24 October 2006 - BOHS 'Webinar' What the Material Safety Data Sheet doesn't tell you but you need to know', 15.00 (UK time)
Contact: Anthea Page, Communications Officer, BOHS, 5/6 Melbourne Business Court, Millennium Way, Pride Park, Derby, DE24 8LZ, UK | Tel: +44 (0) 1332 250701 | Email: anthea@bohs.org | Book via the Event Calendar on www.bohs.org where the full programme is also available. The link to the Webinar website and the conference call telephone number are provided directly to those who have registered.

28 November - 2 December 2006 152nd Meeting of the Acoustical Society of America
Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
Contact: The Acoustical Society of America (ASA), Suite 1NO, 2 Huntington Quadrangle, Melville, NY 11747-4502, USA | FAX (payment by credit card only):+1 516-576-2377 | http://asa.aip.org/meetings.html