Skip to content

CIS Newsletters

• Home
• Newsletters
• Meetings
• Reports

CIS Newsletter

No. 265
October 2011

---

CIS Newsletter celebrates 23 years & still going strong!
Bringing news from Members to Members in over 154 countries in the CIS Network!

---

The CIS Newsletter is a monthly newsletter for the International Labour Organisation (ILO) International Occupational Health and Safety Information Centres and is edited by Sheila Pantry OBE from the UK. The CIS Newsletter is NOT an official publication of the ILO but a newsletter containing information from Members in CIS Centres and other sources and is intended to be shared by anyone who finds the data contained useful. Users are free to use and reuse the data in these newsletters.

---

Contents

1. Editorial - N.B. CIS Newsletter will cease publication with the December 2011 edition
2. ILO news including CIS Annual Meeting
3. FOCUS - The Past, Present and Future of CIS: Some reflections by Gábor Sándi, Head (later Coordinator) of CIS, August 2005 - February 2011
4. News, Events and ideas from around the World from Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Morocco, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, UK, and USA to name a few!
5. OSHE websites to explore
6. Diary of Events

CIS Members' links:

• The WHO Network of Collaborating Centre Connection (CCC) e-newsletter: www.cdc.gov/niosh/ccc
• ILO CIS Network Newsletters: www.sheilapantry.com/cis

---

Editorial

Dear Colleagues

Greetings from the UK on a beautiful early Autumn Day! In this month's edition there is news from the Istanbul World Congress and the CIS 2011 Annual Meeting.

As always many thanks to all who have sent in news for the CIS Newsletter which contains a roundup of information received from many parts of the OSH World.

Please continue to send your News - whatever you are planning - any publications, conferences, seminars or training courses, then please send the details to me so that we can share your efforts with others. Don't forget to send me your latest news! It is amazing how much the CIS Newsletter content gets re-used around the world.

Remember that whilst there is so much occupational safety and health information around the world not all will be trustworthy. Make sure that any information that you use is validated and authoritative and up-to-date.

You should find the FOCUS article to be of especial interest The Past, Present and Future of CIS: Some reflections by Gábor Sándi, Head (later Coordinator) of CIS, August 2005 - February 2011

May I remind you of the following:

Will you be Surviving by the end of 2011?... perhaps you will if you make efforts in 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

Sheila Pantry Associates Ltd,
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
www.sheilapantry.com/memorial

---

News from Istanbul World Congress 2011, 8th International Film and Multimedia Festival and also the CIS Meeting

World Congress calls for a renewed commitment to build a preventative safety and health culture

The XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work - the largest gathering of health and safety experts in the history of the Congress - held its closing session on Thursday, concluding that decent work is safe work and calling for a renewed commitment to build and maintain a global culture of prevention.

The Congress gathered some 5,400 participants from more than 140 countries, and was co-organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Social Security Association (ISSA), together with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, in Istanbul, Turkey, 11-15 September 2011.

A safety and health exhibition held in conjunction with the Congress attracted some 12,000 visitors. Since the first World Congress in 1955, the triennial event has provided the primary international platform for occupational safety and health (OSH) practitioners, specialists and policy-makers.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the World Congress, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized that a productive economy required a competent and skilled workforce, and called for "protective and preventive" approaches to occupational safety and health that aim to provide working conditions which "all human beings deserve".

Prior to the Congress, a Summit of Ministers for a Preventative Culture involving Ministers of Labour from all over the world was organized by the Government of Turkey. Thirty-three Ministers signed the Istanbul Declaration on Safety and Health at Work, recognizing that the right of workers to a healthy and safe working environment is a fundamental human right as well as a societal responsibility, and committing their countries to building sustainable national preventative safety and health cultures.

The Istanbul Declaration builds on the commitments of the Seoul Declaration signed in 2008, which is considered a blueprint for a comprehensive safety and health culture worldwide.

Concluding the World Congress, the Director of the ILO Programme on Safety and Health at Work and the Environment (SafeWork) Seiji Machida and the ISSA Secretary General Hans-Horst Konkolewsky called for a renewed commitment to a culture of occupational safety and health that could respond to a changing work environment caused by demographic changes and the evolving labour market.

Trends identified by Congress participants that are influencing safety and health in the workplace include the impact of the economic crisis, new technologies such as nanotechnologies, climate change and the effects of globalization, increased migration and the growth of the informal economy.

These developments represent serious challenges for the safety of workers that will require proactive and preventive approaches in addition to innovative solutions linking traditional OSH responsibilities with a broader health perspective, Congress participants were told. Experience shared at the Congress demonstrated that social dialogue, involving governments, workers and employers and an enhanced emphasis on education and training can be key to an improved safety and health culture.

In its report on Global Trends and Challenges on Occupational Safety and Health presented at the Congress, the ILO published the latest estimates on occupational safety and health. The report indicates that the overall number of fatal work-related accidents and diseases increased between 2003 and 2008, although the number of fatal accidents declined from 358,000 to 321,000, in the same period, due to significant advances in the field of prevention. However, the number of fatalities due to work-related diseases increased from 1.95 million to 2.02 million.

The preliminary results of a research project presented by the ISSA during the Congress confirmed the important economic benefits of investment in safety and health for companies. The study indicates that the cost-benefit potential for investments in prevention may be as strong as 1:2.2, and even higher in some cases. The cost of occupational safety and health training measures represents a fraction of the cost of rehabilitation and absenteeism, which represent a growing financial burden for social security systems in many regions.

The Congress concluded with an invitation by the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) to host the next World Congress in collaboration with the ILO and the ISSA, in Frankfurt, Germany, 24 to 27 August 2014.

For more information on the XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work visit: www.ilo.org/oshcongress2011

---

The 8th International Film and Multimedia Festival

Films from Brazil, Switzerland and the UK have been awarded prizes in the 8th International Film and Multimedia Festival, during a ceremony at the World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, in Istanbul, Turkey, on 14 September 2011. Multimedia productions from Germany, Sweden and Mexico also received prizes.

This was held during the World Congress, attracted 232 entries from 30 countries. An international jury awarded first prizes to films from Brazil, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. In the multimedia category, the first prize was given to a production from Sweden. The Festival was jointly organized by two of the ISSA Prevention Sections: "Electricity" and "Information".

The full results of the International Film and Multimedia Festival are available on the ISSA website: www.issa.int

The results were announced by Festival co-organizer and Chairman of the ISSA's International Section on Information for Prevention, Marc de Graef, and Peter Rimmer, who presided the Festival's film jury.

First prizes

Do it with prevention...

SESI - Serviço Social da Indústria, Brazil

Giants of Leadership - The Nature of Safety

Lattitude Productions Limited, United Kingdom

Headbanger

Eidgenössische Koordinationskommission für Arbeitssicherheit (EKAS), Switzerland

Special Awards were also given to the following films:

Almost there

Social Security Organization (SOCSO), Malaysia

Balance

Floating World Films, Norway

Our mind is the key of our life

Tüpras / Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corporation, Turkey

The jury also gave special mention to the Napo series of films, to the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture for their series of safety films, and to companies who made films for multinational workforces.

---

CIS 2011 Annual General Meeting

This was held on Sunday 11 September 2011 alongside the Congress. The List of those who attended can be seen in www.sheilapantry.com/cis/meeting2011/participants.html

Presentations were made by Roman Litvyakov on future ideas for CIS and a summary of the activities of CIS and the CIS Centres was given by Annick Virot. Chairperson was Boryana Barbukova.

The presentations will shortly appear on the CIS website - your Editor will link to them in the next edition of the CIS Newsletter (November 2011).

Jill Joyce from IOSH, UK says:

"IOSH is pleased to be a CIS centre. At the CIS meeting it was useful to hear how centres could make CIS more visible and to hear the updates about the new website for the Encyclopedia. The breakout group I was in had an interesting discussion about how to share good practice - for example. having a template, which centres return every 3-6 months and focusing on practical examples, even where perhaps things had gone wrong so others can learn from these examples."

---

Three speeches given by Assane Diop, Executive Director, Social Protection Sector, International Labour Office, at the XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work

11 September 2011, Istanbul, Turkey Speech by Mr Assane Diop, Executive Director, Social Protection Sector, International Labour Office, Geneva at the Opening Ceremony

Honourable Prime Minister,
Your Excellency, Minister of Labour and Social Security of Turkey,
Honourable Ministers,
Your Excellency, President of the Governing Body of the ILO,
Your Excellency, President of the International Social Security Association (ISSA),
Esteemed Delegates,
Dear Friends,

It is with great pleasure that I am with you at the opening of the XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work. Mr. Juan Somavia, Director-General of the International Labour Office, regrets that he cannot be here with us today. However, he has asked me to convey his deepest gratitude to the Turkish Government, as well as to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, to whom I also address my sincerest thanks, for their warm welcome and preparations, which, we are sure, will make this Congress a success.

This Congress can be seen as an occasion to celebrate the nature of our excellent collaboration with the ISSA which has enabled us to not only organize different Congresses but also special events within the framework of social security.

Yet what makes this Congress unique is that within the last few hours, a Summit of Ministers of Labour for a Preventative Culture has taken place bringing together Ministers of Labour and Social Security from around the world, to sign the Istanbul Declaration which endorses the Seoul Declaration.

This can be seen as a bold initiative on the part of the Turkish Ministry of Labour and Social Security. I wish to warmly congratulate them for the excellent organization of this Summit and for the participation of so many ministers.

In addition to organizing the Congress, the fact that the Turkish authorities decided to organize the Summit of the Ministers of Labour in Istanbul demonstrates the extent to which our Turkish hosts regard safety and health at work as a cause worthy of promoting to the highest level. They can be justifiably proud of this.

The Istanbul Declaration, which was adopted and signed by the Summit participants, builds on the Seoul Declaration by reasserting and enriching its objectives. Let us remember that the Seoul Declaration is the first universal charter on the safety and health of workers. It aims to place safety and health at work at the highest level of state political priorities, advocate that safety and health at work is a fundamental human right, promote a preventative safety and health culture around the world and highlight the importance of ILO Conventions. During the closing session of this Congress, a report will be presented on the follow-up and implementation of the Seoul Declaration and we will be informed of the measures taken by the signatories to ensure the durability of this Declaration and an on-going active commitment.

You will all no doubt remember that the XVIII World Congress on Safety and Health at Work had as its theme "Safety and Health at Work: a societal responsibility". I therefore see an entirely logical progression in the choice of themes for the Istanbul Congress.

In terms of societal responsibility, safety and health at work takes on a global dimension with the promotion of a preventative safety and health culture.

We have the duty and the collective responsibility to promote the convictions and commitments which have saved so many lives and have avoided so many occupational accidents and diseases. Prevention is key in these measures.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We are only just emerging out of the world financial crisis and are witnessing great economic and social upheaval across the world. In times of disruption and instability we should strongly reassert the ILO's values, based on the dignity of work and the worker, to forge a path which links productivity and growth with social cohesion and equity.

It is unacceptable that economic growth and development can allow us to relinquish responsibility with regards to safety and health at work. We have to continue to commit ourselves and invest in the idea that productivity and competitiveness can guarantee a safe and healthy working environment.

During the crisis that shook the world, the ILO and its 183 Member States around the world placed strong emphasis on a shared belief: labour is not a commodity.

Safety and health at work lies at the very heart of social protection and represents a key element of the Decent Work agenda. We can never say it enough: decent work is safe work. The ILO has always been fully aware of this fact; it is why the protection of workers against illnesses or occupational diseases and accidents is inscribed in its Constitution. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Seoul Declaration on Safety and Health also acknowledge the right to a safe and healthy working environment.

Protection of workers' health is an integral part of social and economic development and under no circumstances should we lower our guard, especially not in times of adversity and instability.

We are all well aware that a good prevention policy has a beneficial effect on business vitality and social security payments. It has a positive impact on a country's economy in general.

In these times of financial difficulties we should also promote the conviction that safety and health at work produces dividends and is not just a cost. Studies have proven that measures taken to prevent occupational accidents and diseases have allowed society and businesses to make considerable savings: fewer staff on sick leave, fewer demands for compensation and insurance pay-outs, improvements in productivity and workforce stability, to name but a few among the many factors which have a positive impact on national and business accounts.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dramatic events have made news headlines recently, for example the Fukushima nuclear accident in Japan this year and the Pike River mining accident in New Zealand last year in which, remember, 29 miners lost their lives. Another dramatic event which swept the world's headlines was the mining accident in Copiapó, Chile, in 2010 where 33 Chilean miners were held imprisoned in the depths of the earth for 69 days. One of the most significant contributions these Chilean miners made was to raise the whole world's awareness of the necessity to improve safety, to increase prevention measures and to further decent work. I mention here only these three tragedies but, since the last Congress, there have been many more which have cost the lives of thousands of people and which have hardly raised a murmur.

Turkey itself has not been spared. Although Turkish mining accidents have not been of the same magnitude, it is nonetheless important to remember that, according to the Turkish Ministry of Labour and Social Security, mining accidents cost the lives of 92 miners in 2009 and of 67 in 2010. Turkey has decided to act because, in order to support prevention efforts, it has translated the ILO code of practice on safety and health in underground coal mines. We applaud this initiative.

A preventative approach for improved health and fewer occupational accidents and diseases should be linked to labour inspection services. These services play a critical role in providing advice and information and promoting the application of standards in the workplace.

Dear Friends,

Psychosocial risks are recognised today as problems which affect every country, every profession and each and every worker. Studies carried out in European and other developed countries show that stress is at the origin of between 50 and 60 percent of working days lost. The increase in flexibility and job insecurity, work intensity and problems in work relations figure among the common factors cited as the origin of work-related stress. The economic crisis has increased unemployment, psychological distress, depression, excessive consumption of drugs and alcohol, and suicide rates among workers. This shows that it is urgent to act in this area.

The crisis has also affected the progress made towards eliminating the worst forms of child labour. Let us remember that 115 million of the 215 million working children continue to be involved in hazardous work, and that child labour affects both developing and developed countries. Putting an end to the types of work which endanger a child's safety, health or morals is a priority for us all.

I am aware that as part of this Congress you are now going to attend numerous meetings. Your participation represents a commitment not only towards ensuring that work is life sustaining, not life threatening, but also to remind us, if needed, that occupational accidents and diseases are not inevitable.

Our collective obligation and primary responsibility is to continue to identify practical solutions and come up with innovative strategies to protect workers' life, health and well-being.

Let us continue to work together to establish and maintain a world dynamic in order to put the spotlight on the importance of safety and health at work.

I will end with a phrase spoken by Juan Somavia at the 100th International Labour Conference this year: "We are entering a new era of social justice. The ILO's actions, voice and values are needed more than ever to ensure a more stable world."

I wish you all a successful Congress.

 

Speech given by Assane Diop, Executive Director, Social Protection Sector, International Labour Office, Geneva to the Summit of Ministers of Labour for a Preventative Culture on 11 September 2011, Istanbul, Turkey

Your Excellency, Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security of Turkey,
Esteemed Labour Ministers,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Allow me to praise the excellent initiative taken by Mr Faruk Çelik, Minister of Labour, for organizing the Summit of Ministers of Labour for a Preventative Culture on the occasion of the XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work. It is certainly a move of high political importance for you as decision makers, one which will also go down in history.

This is, in fact, the first time in its long history that a Summit for Ministers of Labour is being held alongside the World Congress on Safety and Health at Work.

As part of the 2008 World Congress in Seoul, Republic of Korea, the ILO, International Social Security Association (ISSA) and the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA) organized a Summit on Safety and Health. In addition to the ministers present, CEOs of large corporations, high level trade union representatives and directors of prevention and social security institutions also attended.

The Istanbul Summit represents a new step in the promotion of a global occupational safety and health culture. This Summit has only been possible due to the Turkish Government's tenacity and the fact that the participating countries are resolutely committed to placing occupational safety and health among their national political priorities. As is evident from the number of you participating in this Summit, it is also thanks to your commitment and high regard for safety and health at work that this Summit has been able to take place.

A Summit is always an occasion to set the path for the future and make decisions of high political importance.

This Summit is no exception. Despite significant advances made in the fight against occupational accidents and diseases, workers and businesses continue to pay a heavy price in human lives and disabilities, as well as financially.

It is true that in certain areas we have made remarkable progress as a result of our efforts, from ministerial leadership to commitment from corporate institutions such as the ILO and ISSA. Together, we have developed strategies, shared technical tools and collaborated closely on good practises.

Nevertheless, in reality, we see that we are continuing to pay a heavy price for catastrophes which could be avoided. Even today, men, women and children suffer from occupational accidents and diseases, often being left with consequences which turn their lives into nightmares.

Even today, we do not invest enough in safe working tools and equipment in the name of competitiveness.

Even today, we do not recruit or train enough labour inspectors to enforce compliance with our national legislations and respect for our Conventions and Recommendations.

We are aware, however, that the human cost of this tragedy is immeasurable. The economic cost from working days lost, medical treatments and cash benefits which unbalance our social security funds is estimated to be four percent of annual global GDP. This is more than the total annual amount spent on measures to stimulate the economy adopted in response to the 2008-2009 economic crisis.

We are also aware that by identifying hazards and evaluating risks, by combating them at the source, and promoting a preventative culture, we can significantly reduce the number of occupational accidents and diseases.

It is therefore urgent that we extend our efforts beyond the tripartism which makes natural allies of ministers of labour, employers and workers' organizations to enable even stronger collaboration including with ministers of finance, health, agriculture and other actors in the world of work.

Honourable Ministers,

Whilst we are still trying to deal with the consequences of unsafe working practices from the past, we are facing today new challenges in safety and health at work in the context of a rapidly changing world of work. Many workplace hazards continue to be hidden and unrecognized, including within the informal economy.

We draw attention to these new risks and the new preventative measures necessary in an evolving world of work. We are aware that technical progress is accompanied by new risks in the workplace. These new risks are emerging in areas such as nanotechnology, biotechnology and chemical handling.

An aging workforce, an increase in the number of migrant workers, and an increasing informal economy are all factors which impact on strategies to combat occupational accidents and diseases.

A further striking development is the increase in psychosocial disorders related to new stress-inducing factors and constraints which characterize working life.

We see that prevention strategies must be adapted to take account of this environment. We must constantly evaluate and strengthen occupational safety and health management systems if we want to put an end to the failed practices of the past, take up the challenges of the present and better anticipate future risks.

At this Ministerial Summit, we are attentive to your direction and guidance in sound policies and good practices which will benefit all. Rest assured that the ILO's technical assistance will not fail you.

The World Congress opens officially this evening and I hope that many of you will participate.

I'd like to finish on a personal note by telling you that the Seoul Declaration holds a special meaning to me as three years ago I was one of the 46 signatories and I have fully adhered to its principles. The Istanbul Declaration will, for its own principles, remain just as dear to my heart.

 

Address by Assane Diop Executive Director, Social Protection Sector, International Labour Office, Geneva to the Meeting of Labour Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on 10 September 2011, Istanbul, Turkey

Your Excellency, Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security of Turkey,
Your Excellency, General Secretary of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation,
Your Excellency, President of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation,
Esteemed Labour Ministers,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

ASSALAMU ALEYKUM

Firstly please allow me to warmly congratulate the Turkish Labour Minister, Mr Faruk Çelik, and the General Secretary of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Mr Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu for having taken the excellent initiative of organising this Meeting of Labour Ministers of the OIC on the occasion of the XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work in Istanbul.

I also wish to welcome Mr Yerzan Kazykhanov, President of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

Your Excellency, Labour Minister for the Republic of Turkey,
Ladies and Gentlemen, Ministers of OIC Member States,
Dear Friends,

Allow me to express my gratitude to The Almighty Allah, The Merciful, The Compassionate, for allowing this meeting to take place, this, in one way or another falls in line with the OIC's ten-year action plan.

I am particularly pleased to participate in this meeting for two reasons:

Firstly, I feel it is my duty to convey a message from Ambassador Juan Somavía, Director General of the ILO, who regrets that he cannot be here today and has asked me to send you his personal regards and support whilst reaffirming his readiness to assist you in the administration of your programmes.

Secondly, I am present today in accordance with my religious beliefs, as I believe we share a religion of peace, justice and equity.

Furthermore, I am from Senegal, a country which chairs the Organization of the Islamic Conference for the second time.

Esteemed Ministers,

This meeting comes just after the holy month of Ramadan during which time the Islamic Ummah has drawn a renewal of its solidarity and spirituality from its roots.

This meeting also serves as the first opportunity for ministers responsible for social sectors of OIC member States to enable the renewal of their cooperation and fraternity, as expressed by a change in the name of their organisation where, since last June at Astana, Islamic Conference has been replaced by Islamic Cooperation.

This meeting bears witness to Ummah's common will to rediscover and reinforce its role in the field of promotion and protection of the rights of its citizens.

This determination, which has manifested itself through the establishment of the Permanent Commission on Human Rights, should now result in an increase in protection of the health and safety of workers, members of their families and migrant workers.

On this issue the OIC and ILO are united on fertile ground to enhance their dynamic cooperation.

Within the framework of the fight against occupational accidents and diseases, we are able to reinforce our technical cooperation through the implementation of the ILO Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 2006, (no. 187) in order to develop a national preventative safety and health culture. Convention n° 176, the Safety and Health in Mines Convention, 1995, is of equal importance to your countries.

The main guidelines on Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems (ILO-OSH 2001) will be particularly useful for the prevention of occupational diseases and injuries.

The ILO is willing to establish close collaboration in knowledge sharing with our International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS) which comprises of 150 national centres and the OIC-OSHNET network.

Within the agenda of your meeting lies the troublesome issue of migrant workers.

Among the countries represented here, some are labour providers, others are host countries. The ILO offers more strategic cooperation through the ILO Multilateral Framework on Labour Migration.

I take particular note of your concern for unemployment, that among young people in particular.

The ILO has launched an initiative in response to the crisis that shook worldwide economies with the disastrous consequences that we are all aware of. This is the Global Jobs Pact which includes a section on youth employment. Studies are underway in Indonesia, Jordan and Mali among others and their findings could serve as useful references.

I am waiting to participate in the World Congress activities and the work of the Summit of Ministers of Labour, which should adopt the Istanbul Declaration, without delay. These are all additional initiatives aimed at giving greater visibility to safety and health at work.

Finally, I very much welcome your commitment to ensure that safety and health at work becomes one of the top priorities at national and international level, particularly within OIC Member States.

Assalamu Aleykum.

---

FOCUS

The Past, Present and Future of CIS: Some reflections by Gábor Sándi, Head (later Coordinator) of CIS, August 2005 - February 2011

Introduction

I retired from CIS in February of this year. Soon after, I moved away from Geneva (to Vancouver, Canada) and more than half a year has by now passed since my retirement. This should, I think, give me sufficient distance (in time and space) from my work with CIS so that I can view my professional experience there somewhat dispassionately.

I loved my work with CIS, and I considered my co-workers there almost as part of my extended family. I also enjoyed the interaction with the wider OSH community that I was able to maintain thanks to my job with CIS - a community in which Sheila's newsletter has played a vital part.

At the same time, I look back on my time with CIS - especially on the time when I was (more or less) in charge - with a sense of frustration. So much more could have been accomplished. In my opinion, the main problem does not lie with CIS's staff - all of whom will do their work well and with enthusiasm. Neither does it lie with the financial resources at CIS's disposal. In a time of almost continuous financial crisis there are of course always problems due to budgetary restrictions - but CIS has always surmounted such problems and it has reasonable reserves.

No, the problem is not with staffing or resources. The problem is with CIS's place in its wider organizational framework, and with the lack of clarity in what CIS is expected to do. It is difficult to work effectively if you do not know how your work fits into the larger scheme of things, and if you do not know how your work will be evaluated.

I shall now proceed to an overview of CIS activities, and make some proposals as to how I think CIS could function even better than it does today. These reflections, and the resulting proposals, are mine alone, and I take full responsibility for any mistakes and (unintentional) misrepresentations.

The Core Activities of CIS

So, what is CIS expected to do? Well, its core tasks have included, since its establishment by Marcel Robert in 1959, the selection, indexing and abstracting of the most important documents published worldwide on the subject of OSH. In addition, CIS has to make it possible for the output of this work to make its way to people who can use this information. As a bonus, CIS has always archived the documents it has indexed and abstracted, so that a copy of every such document can be furnished to interested parties.

Are these worthwhile activities? Who decides what is worthwhile? Certainly, CIS has clients who use its main product (incarnated in its present format as the CISDOC database, accessible through the Internet), and it has clients who are willing to pay good money for the archives (the CISDOC-TEXT CD-ROMs). In my thinking, an information service has intrinsic value if people use it. What higher criteria can exist? After all, if the information was useless, no-one would consult it. If all reliable OSH information were readily accessible through Google or the Wikipedia, why would anyone consult CISDOC? Are there people out there who have heard of CISDOC, but not of Google or the Wikipedia? And if the CISDOC-TEXT CDs were useless or more easily available elsewhere, why would subscribers pay for them?

In addition, looking at the ILO's own criteria, I have never heard any criticism of what CIS is doing from the ultimate paymasters of CIS: the Governing Body of the ILO, to whom CIS has to present its budget every two years. The Governing Body has always approved the CIS budget, and with very little discussion. There may be little comments here and there concerning details (use of French and Spanish, accessibility in certain parts of the world, etc.), but it has never (to my knowledge) questioned the validity of CIS's main role.

Of course, one could argue that an activity may be worthwhile but not affordable. The ILO has to set its priorities, and the work performed by CIS may not be among them. If so, the ILO should have the courage of its convictions and explain its changing priorities to the Governing Body. Since it has not done so, we must conclude that the activity is among its priorities, in which case it should be performed as well as reasonably possible. If finances are a problem (and they almost always are), the ILO can conceivably expect CIS to obtain some cost recovery by charging for some of its services, all the while tailoring its products to the demands of the market.

This is where confusing messages start to come in. If the ILO's criteria for CIS include producing some commercial income, it is not reasonable at the same time to criticize CIS for not making all its products free, as has been done at times.

Having established that CIS core activity is worthwhile, the next question to answer is how to perform this core activity as well as reasonably possible, to use my earlier phrasing. What are the factors that have slowed down CIS's work over the years? Why has CIS been chronically late with its production schedule, sometimes by as much as 12 months? Why is the coverage by CIS of the world's OSH literature (including OSH legislation) so uneven?

Without getting into details, the answer is mostly: interference from outside.

CIS does technical work with a production schedule - this is somewhat analogous to assembly-line production in a car factory. In a factory, assembly line workers are (I would think) selected for their aptitude for the job and evaluated according to the quality and speed of their work. Upper management is unlikely to place someone into assembly line work if he or she is not up to the requirements of the job or cannot produce output with the same quality and at the same rate as the minimum requirements for workers already there. Should they do so anyway, there will be a serious reduction in worker morale, and possibly even industrial action.

Why would it be any different for CIS? From what I understand, Marcel Robert ran a tight ship and expected a lot from his collaborators. But he had prestige within the ILO and had little interference with the way he managed CIS. I am sure he had to follow the general guidelines set by the ILO, and CIS had to be audited like any other unit within the organization, but when it came to day-to-day operations, Robert had full control of his budget and had a major say in personnel decisions (including selection of CIS staff).

When I was hired to work in CIS, the original structure of CIS was still in place, under the capable direction of Herbert Siegel. Herb could still hire me on the basis of the results of a performance test tailored to the requirements of the job I was expected to do. This was the case of all the other professionals hired by CIS around the same time. We were all evaluated primarily on the basis of how well we performed at CIS's core activities. As well, Herb could still dispose of the CIS budget as he saw fit, and he had full authority to direct CIS staff to spend their working time according to CIS's requirements.

Time passed. CIS was subsumed into the ILO's overall organizational structure, reducing (then eliminating) the authority of its nominal Head. CIS staff was significantly reduced. CIS staff were increasingly called upon to do things that had little to do with CIS's stated purpose. Eventually, much of CIS's core activities, the very purpose for which CIS had been set up, were contracted out to the outside.

No doubt there were political, financial and bureaucratic reasons for all this, but the outcome was lower efficiency and a reduction in both quality and quantity. To return to my automobile factory analogy, it is as if the owners of the factory decided that there were more important things to do than manufacturing cars.

Interference was not restricted to personnel decisions and to the reduction of the authority of the Head of CIS. There was constant quibbling about what CIS was doing on a day-to-day basis. Why is no more attention being paid to certain fashionable subjects. (Possibly, because little was published on such subjects at the time - what does not exist cannot be abstracted). Why doesn't CIS cover more "practical" information (e.g., training materials)? (Possibly, because such information may not be validated, and the overall reliability of the database would be compromised). CIS was increasingly pressured to reduce a professional approach to what it was doing - is it any wonder that its professional staff was becoming steadily more demoralized?

My main proposals therefore in order to make CIS more effective in its core activities:

Proposal No. 1: CIS should be given a clear mandate, the carrying out of which is to prevail over other considerations. The Budget approved by the Governing Body is ideal for this purpose.

Proposal No. 2: If the staff of CIS is to be assigned duties other than those required by CIS's mandate, this should be accounted for in the way CIS activities are reported to the Governing Body.

At this stage I note that the tasks of CIS have never been restricted to the production of indexed abstracts and related matters. Of course, CIS does other things - some as part of its role as the clearinghouse of OSH information in the world, some not. I shall elaborate on them below.

The CIS Centres Network

Perhaps the most important of these tasks is the coordination of the worldwide network of CIS Regional, National and Collaborating Centres. This network has existed since the beginning of CIS, and - indeed - eleven of the major OSH institutes active in the 1950s were prime movers in the establishment of the Centre.

The network has by now grown to about 150 members, many of which are, however, not active. Managing this network has become an activity requiring significant amounts of time, especially in the weeks preceding the annual meeting of the Centres. This type of work can be factored into normal time management, but it is not normal that weeks of staff time may be spent on financial and travel matters that could be better handled elsewhere. CIS is not a bank or a travel agency.

One of the problems with the Centres network is the apparent indifference by some Centres as to whether they are a member of the network or not. Years may go by before some of them contact CIS at all, and they may not even bother notifying CIS of changes in their contact details. Since maintaining the network requires a significant amount of time and effort by CIS, it would be reasonable to expect Centres to take at least a minimum of effort in order to retain their membership. See Proposal No. 4 below as to how I would remedy this problem.

Proposal No. 3: The CIS Centres Network is overdue for rationalization. This of course cannot be done unilaterally - the process should take into consideration the respective needs and wishes of the main stakeholders: the Centres themselves, CIS with its particular mandate and the ILO at large. A special Meeting of CIS Centres should be convoked in order to concentrate on the structure and future of the network. The Meeting should be held in a location (preferably Geneva) that is relatively easy to access by CIS's active members, and whose costs can be kept to a minimum.

Proposal No. 4: Send out a message to all centres at their most recent contact point asking them to confirm the basic information CIS has on them. If a Centre does not reply in a meaningful manner, it should lose its status as a Centre.

Other Information Activities

CIS is involved in a number of activities in line with its status as a clearing house for OSH information in the world:

Chemical datasheets

The most visible of these over the past decades has been the participation by CIS in the International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS). CIS's contribution has been in the areas of computer implementation of IPCS products, including the provision of a server for the online version of the International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs). IPCS is a successful programme, and there is no particular need to make significant changes in the way CIS participates in it.

Datasheets on the hazards of occupations

In the 1990s, CIS became involved with the creation of datasheets devoted to the hazards of occupations, similar in concept to ISCSs. About 70 of these datasheets have been placed on the CIS website. Not only do they need updating, but the collection needs datasheets on many more occupations in order to make it more useful.

In the years just before my departure from CIS there was a renewal of interest in the revitalization of this project. The main push came from the Italian and Israeli National Centres and a French organization of occupational physicians. A greatly enlarged and updated collection of these datasheets would clearly be a useful addition to the CIS information set. Like any other project, however, it is worth doing only if it can be done well. Therefore a proposal:

Proposal No. 5: A CIS staff member should be entrusted with the coordination of this project, with an acknowledgement in the CIS Budget of the resources needed in order to carry it out.

Conferences, training, news

It is essential for the international OSH community to be kept informed on upcoming OSH conferences and training opportunities and of important events in the world of OSH. Both Sheila's newsletter and the CIS web site have provided this service. With the Newsletter coming to an end, it is up to CIS to maintain on its website a continuously updated listing of both conferences and training courses and of a page of recent noteworthy news. As with many CIS activities, these are ongoing, often repetitive tasks, but tasks the output of which the OSH world acutely needs. Who but CIS can do them well, now that the newsletter is about to cease publication?

Proposal No. 6: CIS should merge the information provided on conferences, training courses and news (events) so far provided separately by the SafeWork and the Newsletter into one integrated site.

[Editor's note - OSHWORLD Diary of Events www.oshworld.com/diary.html attempts to do this]

The Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety

There is an ongoing project to produce an updated, entirely web-based version of the 4th edition of the Encyclopaedia. The project is managed by Prof. Jeanne Stellman, Editor-in-Chief of the original 4th edition.

Once implemented, the Encyclopaedia will have to be kept continuously updated, otherwise it will lose credibility. No information is static, especially so in the case of a comprehensive overview of a subject. Although I do not know whether CIS will be charged with the job of managing this version of the Encyclopaedia, I do think that CIS is very well positioned to do so - if it is provided with sufficient resources and the ability to hire the right person for the job.

My proposal therefore is:

Proposal No. 7: Updating the Encyclopaedia should become a continuously funded part of CIS activities. The online version of the Enycylopaedia should be linked directly to most, or maybe all, other CIS information products.

Social media

In today's world, some presence on social media is indispensable for any effective organization. I note that CIS has a Facebook presence. However, it is rather inactive. As for other aspects of CIS services, I propose that:

Proposal No. 8: The presence of CIS on Facebook, and possibly on other social media, be part of the regular tasks of a CIS staff member.

Conclusion

I have made above a fairly comprehensive overview of CIS activities, as well as some proposals as to how CIS could be improved. Nothing here is very innovative: I don't think I have written anything that has not been said or written by someone else knowledgeable about what CIS is about.

I submit this essay to the readers of the CIS Newsletter for their comments and suggestions. I cannot think of a forum more suitable for it than the Newsletter, and I would like to thank Sheila Pantry for offering me the opportunity to make my contribution.

---

News from around the World

News from Belgium

A new Arab Democratic Trade Union Forum: For freedom, social justice and dignity

Fifteen Arab trade union organizations from 10 countries founded on 16 September 2011 in Amman, Jordan, a new Forum to promote the fundamental values of democratic and independent trade unionism and to increase regional union solidarity and unity. The founding union organizations are from Bahrain (GFTU); Egypt (EFITU); Iraq (GFIW); Kuwait (KTUF); Libya ( FLWF*); Mauritania (CLTM, CNTM, UTM); Morocco (CDT, CGTM, UMT); Palestine (PGFTU); Tunisia (UGTT); and Yemen (GFYWTU).

"The transition process to democracy as well as the revolutionary struggles, which are still ongoing, need a better contribution from the Arab trade union movement. Our priorities are to achieve genuine democracy and social justice, to ensure dignity for all in the Arab world," said Tunisian trade unionist Abdessalem Jerad, who was elected President of the new Forum.

The final declaration of the meeting stated:

"A key historic player in many national liberation battles, the independent trade union movement in the Arab world has been struggling for decades under the most difficult circumstances to enforce the freedom of association and the right to organize, as well as to defend fundamental rights at work and decent livelihoods for workers' families and the rest of the society. Free trade union fighters in the region have faced campaigns of heavy repression and exclusion. These oppressive practices have inflicted harm on worker's interests, exacerbated social differences, increased unemployment and poverty, spread informal economy and precarious forms of employment.

"To overcome the challenges and hardships resulting from the repercussions of brutal global capitalism and the failed national economic and social policies, the independent trade union movement finds itself facing new historical responsibilities that require it to be closer to the grassroots. It needs to increase its solidarity and promote its unity and joint action, especially towards the workers and unionists who are facing extraordinary difficulties, as currently in Bahrain and Syria.

"Committed to transparency and democracy in internal union affairs, the democratic Arab trade union movement wants to play a leading and effective role in enacting the laws of democratic transition, develop their mechanisms in the various Arab countries, and ensure they liaise and work jointly with other societal forces which believe in freedom, progress and equality."

In other key points in the declaration:

The founding members of the Forum committed themselves to defend and promote the core principles of independent trade unionism: the right of all workers to form independent and representative trade union organizations, the right to collective bargaining, the rejection of any outside interference in trade union affairs, and respect for public and individual freedoms, including the right to freedom of expression and peaceful demonstration.

Equality between men and women, elimination of all forms of discrimination, including against migrant workers, genuine social dialogue, efficient social protection for all workers, including those working on the informal economy, are top priorities of the Forum.

Shaher Sae'd, PGFTU General Secretary (Palestine), was the elected coordinator of the new Forum.

"We warmly welcome the launch of the new Forum. A stronger and united Arab trade union movement can play a pivotal role in achieving genuine democracy and tackling unemployment, precarity, poverty and inequality, affecting especially youth and women who are at the forefront of these struggles," said Sharan Burrow, ITUC.

*Free Libyan Workers' Federation.

The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) represents 175 million workers in 151 countries and territories and has 305 national affiliates. www.ituc-csi.org

---

News from Canada

Scholarship Opportunity for Occupational Health and Safety Students

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) is calling for entries for the 2011-12 scholarship award. This annual, national award is offered to students enrolled in an occupational health and safety course or program in an accredited Canadian college or university, leading to an occupational health and safety certificate, diploma or degree.

Established in 2002 by the CCOHS Council of Governors, the Dick Martin Scholarship Award was created in recognition of Mr. Martin's valuable contribution to CCOHS as one of its governors; his powerful voice for the rights of workers; his commitment to securing justice for working men and women; and, promoting action to protect people's environments inside and outside the workplace.

Three, $3000 scholarships will be awarded. To apply for the award, post secondary students are invited to submit a 1000 -1200 word essay on a topic related to their area of study in occupational health and safety. Essays will be judged on the intellectual content, the practical and theoretical value and the presentation and style.

Entry deadline for the Dick Martin Scholarship Award is January 31, 2012.

More information about Dick Martin as well as full details about the Dick Martin Scholarship Award including the application form, are available on the CCOHS website.

Contact:

Eleanor Westwood, Manager, Communications Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) | Tel: (905) 572-2981, Ext. 4408 | E-mail: eleanorw@ccohs.ca | www.ccohs.ca

Jennifer Miconi-Howse, Communications Officer, Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) | Tel: (905) 572-2981, Ext. 4241 | E-mail: jenmh@ccohs.ca | www.ccohs.ca

---

News from France

The unsuspected dimensions of occupational health - Les dimensions insoupçonnées de la Santé au Travail L'Harmattan - Questions contemporaines (In French with English Introduction and contents) by Michel Guillemin

Why a new book on Occupational Health? Because it is time to enlarge the scope of this broad domain too often restricted to the legal framework of health and safety, and suffering from a lack of consideration, understanding and visibility, as well as from many misconceptions about Health at Work. Because it is important to continuously denounce the fundamental pollution, which erodes Work - an essential pillar of our Society - illustrated by present negative trends, such as denial of the reality (e.g., burnout, depression, suicides, cancers, diseases) and contempt for human beings and their values, expectations and needs, as well as to denounce the surprising disregard for the resultant suffering. Because the victims are not only workers and employees but also managers and decision-makers compelled to meet unreachable goals in terms of economy (imposed by the stakeholders) and submitted to huge pressure and unbearable rhythms and workloads. The misuse of "management standards" contributes to the dehumanization of working conditions where the only criterion for success is profit. In such cases, managers willing to defend human values and social responsibility of the enterprise are quickly replaced by a "young dog" without any scruple. This book summarizes the situation as the author sees it (after more than 35 years of experience) and shows that the dimensions of Occupational Health are much broader than usually expected, with strong relations with environmental protection, public health and the economy. Before proposing changes, it is important to get an overview of the actual situation, based on facts and scientific evidence, and including the description of emerging progresses in modern and responsible enterprises. This constitutes the starting point to promote new ideas and solutions everywhere they are needed. Work promotes health when working conditions are really adequate; however, this field of investigation still remains practically unexplored.

Finally the author stresses the need to give much more visibility to the many concrete progresses in this field, with a view to accelerating their development and making them popular and "contagious". Moreover, new possibilities for research, health promotion and well being at work are proposed.

Chapter 1 - Work and Health

This chapter summarizes the historical and sociological development of work in order to better understand our cultural roots related to Work. The definition of Health, as proposed by the World Health Organization, is also discussed and developed for the field named "Occupational Health".

Chapter 2 - The Present Situation of Occupational Health (The Emerged Part of the Iceberg)

The recent progresses in this field are underlined and reviewed as well as the problems which remain and need to be solved.

Chapter 3 - Questions about the General Indifference (The Hidden Part of the Iceberg)

Puzzling paradoxes are presented and analyzed in order to search for explanations of certain contradictory facts. Shocking attitudes, where the fundamental rules of ethics are scorned, are also described. The lack of real support of Occupational Health by the stakeholders and the decision makers is illustrated by a series of examples. What are the reasons for such an attitude? Tentative answers are given.

Chapter 4 - Occupational Health: A vast domain with huge issues at stake, apparently still unsuspected

The overlapping of Occupational Health with other fundamental components of our Society is emphasized. Three main areas are described: 1. Public Health. 2. Environmental Protection. 3. Economy. Facts and figures illustrate how the impact of Work and Health on these areas is often underestimated and even ignored in spite of the available scientific evidence and knowledge in this respect. Moreover, the new science exploring the health promoting components and factors of working conditions and environment offers wonderful perspectives for the future.

Chapter 5 - Avenues for a Better Health of the Society

Here, the emerging progresses in some enterprises and professional areas are emphasized and presented as very promising sustainable trends, if continued and supported by all concerned people. They help to enhance awareness on the importance of Occupational Health and the need for its development. Up to now, prevention has been mostly "reactive", that is, actions are taken when the problem is so obvious and serious that something has to be done. It is time to become "proactive" and use the vast capacities of science and technology to act before the problems appear.

Chapter 6 - Summary and Conclusion

The need to redefine "Work" and "Prevention" in a much broader concept than today is underlined and analyzed in the light of the emerging perspectives presented in this book. Heroes of the past have shown the way and we should not be afraid to follow them and to aim at ambitious and generous goals.

To dare to dream of a better world is a step towards its achievement.

The unsuspected dimensions of occupational health - Les dimensions insoupçonnées de la Santé au Travail L'Harmattan - Questions contemporaines
(In French with English Introduction and contents)
by Michel Guillemin, June 2011, ISBN 9782296551534
Contact: L'Harmattan, 7 Rue de l'Ecoloe Polytechnique, 75005 Paris, France

www.editions-harmattan.fr/index.asp?navig=catalogue&obj=livre&no=34509

---

News from Germany

'The EMEC Europa conference, 11 to 13 October 2011, will be held at the ICM Conference Centre of Munich Trade Fair in conjunction with inter airport Europe 2011 in Munich, Germany

The theme is 'Civil Protection is Emergency Management - a new profession'.

IAEM Europa invites all civil protection and emergency management professionals to take up the opportunity being offered to attend their profession's networking event of 2011. Organised by the International Association of Emergency Managers and experienced event organiser Mack Brooks Exhibitions, EMEC Europa is the new networking event for all involved in civil protection and emergency management.

www.emec-europa.com/event/programme

---

News from Malaysia

The Malaysian Industrial Hygiene Association (MIHA), the organizer of the 9th International Occupational Hygiene Association (IOHA) International Scientific Conference 2012 is proud to announce that it has launched the Call for Papers on the website.

IOHA2012 will be held on the 16-20 September 2012, with PDC scheduled on 16-17 September 2012 and Conference proper on 18-20 September 2012.

Share your expertise and experience to continuously improve Industrial Hygiene practices globally by presenting at this prestigious conference. Deadline for Paper Submission is 15 December 2011, and submission to be completed electronically through our website.

The following topics are encouraged to be presented at the Conference:

1. Nanotechnologies, nanomaterials and ultrafine particles
2. Globally harmonized system
3. Control banding
4. IH issues in emerging economies
5. Asbestos Exposure Assessment Strategies
6. Health management and promotion in workplace
7. Sustainable OH & Safety Management systems
8. Indoor environmental quality
9. Industrial ventilation
10. PPE - the last protection
11. Health risk assessment
12. Ergonomics
13. Human factors engineering
14. Occupational epidemiology
15. Toxicology
16. Noise & hearing conservation program
17. OH issues in construction on industry
18. Psychosocial
19. Emergency Response and roles of IH
20. Exposure monitoring & lab capability
21. Environmental health
22. Managing Safety & health in workplaces
23. IH capability & trainings
24. Managing biological hazards
25. Ethics
26. Confined spaces

Kindly visit www.ioha2012.net for further details and conference registration will begin in December 2011. On behalf of the Organizing Committee, we look forward to your participation.

---

News from Poland

Promoting CIS in Poland

Barbara Szczepanowska writes:

I have just come back from Zakopane in Poland where I have attended the Conference on Information and library science. This year the title was: "People in the information space". For many years I have been a member of the Board of the Polish Society for Information Science www.ptin.org.pl and we have organise the conferences (or FORA) every year. There are usually about 100 people from all around Poland (information specialists, librarians, directors, university teachers, management of different levels, professors etc.).

Every year I have a presentation always connected with ILO, SafeWork, CIS. I also prepare the text of 10-15 pages and it is printed in the book, journal or materials from the Conference. It is one of the ways I have promoted CIS in Poland. This year my presentation was on the "Evolution of promotion forms of subject information on the example of OSH Encyclopaedia of ILO".

I covered the evolution of the different forms of information. I also talked about ILO itself, SafeWork and CIS (short history, aims, activities then onto the Encyclopaedia (short history - I, II, III, IV edition), the role of CIS in works on it, and about the Vth edition - aims, difficulties in the aspect of users developing needs, works on it now and future aims.

The paper will be published so that many more specialists will obtain knowledge about ILO, CIS and its Encyclopaedia.

My presentation will also on the website of our Society and the paper will be printed.

---

News from the Republic of Macedonia

MOSHA presented itself successfully, at the XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, in the period between 11th and 15th September in Istanbul, Turkey

In the period when Macedonia achieves historical successes towards promoting and self validation in various social aspects, MOSHA rejoins through the promotional presentation, at the XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work in Istanbul, Turkey

We say promotional because this is the first time for a Macedonian organisation from the OSH area, to be presented at a world event. We are even more proud because of the fact that MOSHA was the only organization from the region, that had a stand at the fair, presenting its activities and the activities and the directions of the Safety and Health at Work in our country.

The formal opening of the Congress, aside from the cultural and artistic elements, included addressing of the representatives of the relevant OSH institutions from all over the world, and the Prime minister of Turkey, Mr. Redzep Taip Erdogan, who greeted the participants.

At the first day of the Congress, there was a ceremony of official opening of the fair, during which guests of the MOSHA's stand were the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Mr. Spiro Ristovsk, and the Director of the State Labour Inspectorate Mr. Goran Jovanovski.

During the four days of the fair, the stand of MOSHA was visited by the Minister of Labour and Social Security - Turkey, The Director of EU OSHA, representatives of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), representatives of the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority, representatives of IOSH from Great Britain etc. The stand was also visited by numerous partners and collaborators from Macedonia and the region.

Within the Congress, the presence of the high governmental representatives, was used for the sighing of Memorandum of Understanding between MOSHA and IOSH - the UK Institution of Occupational Safety and Health.

In this occasion we would like to express our satisfaction with the successfully organized World Congress that was attended by 5400 participants from the whole world, and was composed of many interesting presentations that helped the participants to enrich their knowledge.

More pictures of these event on this link: http://www.mzzpr.org.mk/index.php?option=com_morfeoshow&Itemid=18&lang=en

Ljupco Kocovski, ILO/CIS center coordinator, Macedonian Occupational Safety and Health Association, 29 Noemvri 50, 1000 Skopje, Republic of Macedonia | Tel/Fax: ++ 389 (0)2 2774 868 | Cell: ++389 (0)75 432 051 | www.mzzpr.org.mk

---

News from Spain

EU-OSHA launches landmark project OiRA to facilitate risk assessment in Europe's small enterprises

Officially launched at the XIX World Congress on Safety and Health at Work in Istanbul, the Online interactive Risk Assessment (OiRA) project marks the first initiative at EU level to facilitate workplace risk assessment. Developed by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA), the innovative tool will help Europe's 20 million micro and small enterprises to improve safety and health for their workers by assessing risks through an easy-to-use and cost-free web application.

"Experience shows that proper risk assessment is the key to healthy workplaces," explains Dr Jukka Takala, Director of EU-OSHA. "Yet carrying out risk assessments can be quite challenging, particularly for small enterprises as they lack adequate resources or the know-how to do so effectively. The reasons companies give for not carrying out checks are lack of expertise (41%), the belief that risk assessments are too expensive or that they are overly time consuming (38%). In OiRA, EU-OSHA is proud to offer a free online tool to overcome these challenges. OiRA contributes to eliminating or reducing the 168 000 work-related deaths, 7 million accidents and 20 million cases of work-related disease annually in the EU 27", says Dr Takala.

The vision of EU-OSHA's landmark project is to assist small enterprises in putting in place a step-by-step risk assessment process - starting with the identification and evaluation of workplace risks, through to the decision making on preventive action, identification of adequate measures, to continued monitoring and reporting. The aim is to reduce the burden for small enterprises of carrying out and documenting their risk assessments easily and quickly while maintaining accuracy.

"EU-OSHA is working closely with the authorities and social partners at EU and national level to put the OiRA tool generator at their disposal," continues Dr Takala. "In turn, these partners will develop their own sector-specific and fully customisable OiRA tools and offer them for free to small enterprises."

The collaboration with key social partners also encourages widespread take-up and use of the tool at enterprise level and leads to the development of an OiRA community to share knowledge and experience. The final tool is backed by support and full guidance services provided by EU-OSHA to the developers.

OiRA projects have been launched both at EU level and Member State level (Cyprus, Belgium and France), piloting the development and diffusion model and covering sectors such as hairdressing and transport.

Based on the successful Dutch Risk Inventory & Evaluation instrument, the OiRA tool sets out to replicate this success across Europe. Since the creation of the Dutch online tool (www.rie.nl), there have been a total of 1.6 million visits to the website. This is an impressive number given that the Netherlands is a relatively small country with approximately 800 000 companies in total. The tool is downloaded an average of 5 000 times per month.

Links

• OiRA at the World OSH congress
• More information on the OiRA project dedicated website: http://www.oiraproject.eu/about

---

News from Spain

The report 'Legionella and legionnaires' disease

A policy overview presents the regulatory framework related to Legionella and guidelines for practical application, including policies of international organisations. Linked to the Healthy Workplaces Campaign on Safe Maintenance, the factsheet summarises the occupational aspects of exposure to Legionella and offers good practice examples of how to control Legionella risks.

• Read the report (English)
• Factsheet (in 24 languages)
• Search for case studies in Case Studies Database (English)
• Safe Maintenance Campaign

---

News from Spain

EU-ECHA guidance on Labelling and Packaging in accordance with Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 now available in 22 EU languages

The EU Regulation on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of substances and mixtures, the so called CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 will gradually replace the Dangerous Substances Directive (67/548/EEC) and Dangerous Preparations Directive (1999/45/EC). Both Directives will be repealed by 1 June 2015. The legislation introduces throughout the EU a new system for classifying and labelling chemicals, based on the United Nations' Globally Harmonised System (UN GHS).

CLP is about the hazards of chemical substances and mixtures and how to inform others about them. It is the task of industry to establish what are the hazards of substances and mixtures before these are placed on the market, and to classify them in line with the identified hazards.

In case a substance or a mixture is hazardous, it has to be labelled so that workers and consumers know about its effects before they handle it. Note that "mixture" means the same as the term "preparation" which has been used so far.

There are certain timelines for industry to classify and label their substances and mixtures in line with the CLP rules. Also, industry must notify hazardous substances and mixtures to a central inventory.

ECHA guidance documents have been developed with the participation of stakeholders from Industry, Member States and NGOs. The objective of these documents is to facilitate the implementation of REACH by describing good practice on how to fulfil the obligations.

---

News from Spain

Did you know? Younger workers: Health and safety aspects of working life

Younger workers are vulnerable, as they often are inexperienced, and ignorant of risks to themselves and others. It is important to integrate safety and health into education so that young people are aware of the risks they might face and are capable of dealing with them. It is also important for employers to pay extra attention to the safety of young workers, including students taking summer jobs.

• More about young people
• EU-OSHA highlighted some of these aspects in a blog produced for International Youth Day on the 12th August
• "Safe Start" PPT by Sarah Copsey, EU-OSHA

---

News from Spain

Dr Christa Sedlatschek appointed to lead EU-OSHA

Dr Christa Sedlatschek has been appointed as the next director of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA). She is currently Head of Initiatives, Programmes, Transfer and Network Management and Director of the Initiative for a New Quality of Work (www.inqa.de) at the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA).

Dr Sedlatschek's appointment has been confirmed by the Bureau of EU-OSHA's Governing Board following her nomination by the EU-OSHA Governing Board on 29 June and an exchange of views with members of the European Parliament on 13 July. She will take up her new post on 16 September 2011 and succeed Dr Jukka Takala who is retiring.

Károly György, chair of the Governing Board said: "Christa Sedlatschek has a strong track record in promoting better safety and health at work at both national and European levels. Having been strongly involved in EU-OSHA's start-up, we are delighted to have her back on board and she is a worthy successor to Jukka Takala. She has the vision, experience and commitment to lead EU-OSHA and make use of the strength of its tripartite governance in the next stage of its development. We look forward to working with her to achieve higher levels of safety and health in working conditions."

Dr Sedlatschek told members of the European Parliament's Employment and Social Affairs Committee, that as Agency Director she would focus on four priority areas. Firstly, on getting the message across and strengthening the marketing of occupational safety and health (OSH) as a 'benefit for all'. Secondly, to stimulate the establishment of a preventive OSH culture in Europe. Thirdly, to network and cooperate with key stakeholders to develop and disseminate information that can be of use in their work at European and national level. And fourthly, to mainstream OSH into other policy areas such as education and training.

Commenting on her appointment, Dr Sedlatschek said: "I am deeply honoured to be appointed to lead EU-OSHA. I am fortunate to inherit from Jukka Takala an agency with an excellent reputation and a highly motivated and expert staff. My overriding aim is to ensure that EU-OSHA continues to combine scientific excellence with practical solutions that can really contribute to making Europe's workplaces safer, healthier and more productive. "

Background

Dr Christa Sedlatschek is a medical doctor (University of Vienna) and a specialist in occupational health.

After completing her studies she started working in the Austrian labour inspectorate and moved to the Ministry for Labour and Social Affairs in 1993, taking over the function as Deputy Head of the department for occupational medicine.

In 1998 she was recruited by EU-OSHA where she focused on the development and dissemination of good practice information, becoming the head of the working environment unit. During that time she gained an in-depth knowledge about the EU and existing occupational safety and health (OSH) systems in the Member States.

In 2003 she moved to Berlin and started working in the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin - BAuA), where she became Director of the national "Initiative New Quality of Work - INQA" in 2004.

"INQA" was launched by the German Federal Ministry for labour and social affairs as a consequence of the Lisbon Summit in 2000, aiming at making a contribution towards creating more and better jobs in Europe.

Christa Sedlatschek has always focused her work within the field of OSH on the transfer of research and development information to the company level. She is convinced that the gap between existing knowledge and sustainable implementation of OSH in companies has to be bridged and in that context EU-OSHA has a key role.

http://osha.europa.eu

---

News from Sweden

Introducing the SINLIST

ChemSec, The International Chemical Secretariat, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to working towards a toxic free environment. Based in Göteborg, Sweden, ChemSec was founded in 2002 by four Swedish environmental organisations: Swedish Society for Nature Conservation, WWF Sweden, Nature and Youth and Friends of the Earth Sweden. These NGOs are the ChemSec member organisations and are represented on the ChemSec board.

ChemSec operates through support from a broad spectrum of society. A main contributor is the Swedish Government, but ChemSec also receives financial support from charitable foundations and other NGOs.

What is the SIN LIST?

The SIN (Substitute It Now!) List is an NGO driven project to speed up the transition to a toxic free world. The List 2.0 consists of 378 chemicals that ChemSec has identified as Substances of Very High Concern based on the criteria established by the EU chemical regulation, REACH. The SIN List is an important tool for speeding up the REACH legislative process, and is based on a straightforward concept: substitute hazardous chemicals with safer alternatives. Think of it as a fast track to a toxic-free world.

Substitute It Now!

The 378 chemicals on the SIN List 2.0 are currently being used in everything from detergents and paints to computers and toys. Sometimes in high levels. Yet consumers have no knowledge of this. The SIN List puts pressure on legislators to move forward with speed and urgency. It provides progressive retail companies with a helpful list of hazardous chemicals to avoid as they aim for a sustainable future. It also challenges certain chemical companies to shape up.

The most hazardous chemicals according to EU legislation

The SIN List contains substances that are identified by ChemSec as fulfilling the criteria for Substances of Very High Concern provided by REACH. These are substances that can cause cancer, alter DNA or damage reproductive systems. It also includes toxic substances that do not easily break down, but instead build up in nature - with a potential to cause serious and long-term irreversible effects.

A unique collaboration between NGOs and progressive businesses

The SIN List has been developed by ChemSec in close collaboration with leading NGOs in the EU and the US. Companies in the ChemSec Business Group have also contributed to the development of the list. The SIN List, a combined effort of public interest groups, businesses, scientists and technical experts, is based on credible, publicly available substance information from existing data bases, scientific studies and new research.

An ongoing project

The SIN List is a living, ongoing multi-stakeholder project that will evolve according to new developments and findings. It will be continuously updated as new information on dangerous chemicals becomes available.

The aim of the SIN List project is to ensure that REACH Authorisation procedure is an effective tool to fast-track the most hazardous substances for substitution and to facilitate toxic use reduction by businesses and other actors.

378 substances listed

Here is the complete SIN List 2.0 of 378 (updated in May 2011) substances - all of which fulfil the criteria for Substances of Very High Concern as defined in the REACH regulation. The database contains 311 substances that are Carcinogenic, Mutagenic and toxic to Reproduction (CMRs), 17 substances that are Persistent, Bioaccumulative and Toxic or very Persistent and very Bioaccumulative (PBTs and vPvBs) and 50 Substances of Equivalent Concern

www.sinlist.org

---

News from the UK

Tips on tackling 6 causes of work-related stress

Addressing work-related stress doesn't have to cost the earth; often it's about identifying practical solutions after assessing the possible causes.

Based on the 6 risk factors included in the Management Standards, this document allows you to check if you're doing enough to address the causes of stress at work:

Stress checklist: www.hse.gov.uk/stress/standards/pdfs/suggestions.pdf

---

News from the UK

Hard work all round pays off for first Arabic NEBOSH exam

The time between taking an exam and finding out if you've succeeded is never easy. You wonder if all your hard work has paid off and if the result you were looking for is the one you're going to get.

It is not only students that feel this way! Recently, both NEBOSH and Bahrain based course provider RRC Middle East (ME) were nervously awaiting the results of the first ever Health and Safety at Work exam to be set in Arabic. Fortunately, neither had anything to worry about.

Students from Middle Eastern businesses and government departments took the course with RRC ME. Out of 17 who took the assessments 16 achieved the qualification. Importantly, subsequent feedback from students gathered by the course provider was very positive.

"Several students told us they had been afraid about taking this course, because the name NEBOSH is so strongly associated with higher-lever professional qualifications," said Hasan AlAradi, Managing Director of RRC ME. "Even though the Health and Safety at Work qualification is an entry level course, some believed it might be too difficult for them.

"However, all agreed that the Arabic language of our course made the content very clear and easy to digest. And with tutor and students sharing practical experiences, their apprehension about the course turned to confidence and helped in gaining understanding of the topics. The exam itself was also a very good translation."

A number of students have since expressed an interest in taking a Certificate level NEBOSH course in Arabic, should this become available to them in the future.

NEBOSH Chief Executive, Teresa Budworth commented: "It has been a major project for NEBOSH setting an examination in a foreign language, so we're delighted to hear of this success. My congratulations go to the students who passed and to RRC ME for delivering such an effective course.

"We want NEBOSH to help preserve and improve occupational health and safety in workplaces worldwide, so it's important we extend the availability of our qualifications to those who are non-English speaking. This process will take time, but with plans for the Health and Safety at Work qualification to be set in Russian and Chinese Mandarin, as well as Arabic, we're starting to move in the right direction."

For more information on the qualification and examinations in languages other than English, please contact NEBOSH Customer Services on + 44 (0)116 2634700 or info@nebosh.org.uk

The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) was formed in 1979 and is an independent examining board and awarding body with charitable status. NEBOSH offers a comprehensive range of globally-recognised, vocationally-related qualifications designed to meet the health, safety, environmental and risk management needs of all places of work in both the private and public sectors.

Courses leading to NEBOSH qualifications attract around 30,000 candidates annually and are offered by over 400 course providers around the world. NEBOSH examinations have been taken in over 90 countries. NEBOSH qualifications are recognised by the relevant professional membership bodies including the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA).

Topics covered by the Health and Safety at Work qualification include: risk assessment and control; work equipment; transport safety; electrical safety; fire safety; manual handling and hazardous substances. 24 hours of study time is needed to pass a multiple choice examination and practical assessment.

Contact: Julia Whiting, Communications Co-ordinator, NEBOSH | Tel: +44 (0)116 263 4724 | Email: julia.whiting@nebosh.org.uk

---

News from the UK

EssentialSkillz has changed the entire e-course library -take a new look!

Every course in EssentialSkillz collection has been updated and all of the courses are fully editable... by you. Add your own images, policies, procedures and even videos. There are NO CHARGES for editing the courses - it is all included as part of your licence. Why not take a Free Trial or join one of our Free Webinars and see for yourself why EssentialSkillz are one of the UK's leading E-Learning providers.

• NEW course just added - PPE
• New look to every course
• 22 Fully Editable Courses
• Integrated authoring tool
• Comprehensive Management System (LMS)
• Train, track and analyse
• Integrated Employee Risk Assessment System

PLUS - EsentialSkillz has just released their White Paper on DSE E-Learning to download: www.workstationsafety.com/2010/08/download-our-latest-whitepaper

www.essentialskillz.com/products/o-las-content-library

---

News from the UK

Tackling drink and drug problems in the workplace

New guidelines, a dedicated website and an electronic learning package are now available to help managers of small businesses deal with employees whose drink or drug intake is affecting their work.

In the workplace, alcohol and drugs not only damage health but also cost employers through absenteeism, reduced productivity and, potentially, more accidents. However, many managers feel uncomfortable or ill-equipped to confront the problem and defer taking action until it becomes acute or too late.

In the UK, according to Alcohol Concern, between 11 and 17 million working days are lost because of excessive drinking, costing the British economy £1.8 billion every year and 10% of a typical workforce is said to have an alcohol or drug problem.

Help is at hand thanks to a British-led project to produce a comprehensive information and training resource.

The Mepmis project - funded by the Leonardo Foundation, part of the EC's Lifelong Learning Programme - brought together seven European partners: a university, a research agency, three consultancies and a web design IT company - based in the UK, Ireland, Greece, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland.

The result is a dedicated website, an electronic learning package and a new face-to-face training course geared to address a culture which is globally costing organisations and economies many millions in absenteeism, under-performance and workplace accidents.

Employers need to consider when it becomes a performance or safety issue. Dealing with staff whose work performance is adversely affected by their use of alcohol and drugs, however, can be challenging and difficult.

In the UK, employers have a general duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of their employees. If an employer knowingly allows an employee under the influence of drugs or excess alcohol to continue working and this places the employee or others at risk, they could be prosecuted.

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, drivers of road vehicles must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving, attempting to drive or when they are in charge of a vehicle. The Transport and Works Act 1992 makes it a criminal offence for certain workers to be unfit through drink and/or drugs while working on railways, tramways and other guided transport systems.

Some employers have adopted screening as part of their drugs and alcohol policy - particularly in 'safety-sensitive' industries - as a way of controlling drug and alcohol problems. The guidelines suggest that employers think very carefully about screening which, by itself, will never be the complete answer to problems caused by drug or alcohol misuse. Prevention is just as important.

Both e-learning and face-to-face training resources are modular. The latter has options for a one or two day training course depending on the needs and preferences of participants.

The course begins with a general introduction including the business case, the rationale for a proactive approach and definition of the terms used. It examines the best corporate approach to tackle alcohol and drug use; legal principles that underpin any action including health and safety law, human rights legislation and data protection; managerial knowledge, skills and competencies, which include spotting signs and symptoms, and discipline and support; testing; substances of concern and how they affect behaviour and performance; and putting theory into practice.

The e-learning is also modular. It covers the same topics as the face to face training with participants following a train of events in one of three fictitious company case studies.

Both sets of materials were field tested in each of the partner countries through the use of self-complete questionnaires and focus groups.

John Griffiths of work2health Ltd, the project leader, said: "We spoke to managers and occupational health and safety professionals in each country and asked them what they perceived as their main challenges in this area and what they felt they needed in terms of information and support. It is one of the key personnel issues they feel least equipped to deal with.

"They are aware that this problem - and associated issues such as testing - can be a legal and social minefield and they want to know what actions are open to them, what's expected of them and what the sensitivities are."

He added: "This is a complex issue; the problem cannot be ignored but employers who think they can simply dismiss workers or force them to undergo tests without developing and implementing proper policies, procedures and training are likely to run into trouble.

"One of the main aims is to build skills; many companies do not possess the tools to enable their managers to deal with substance use at a corporate level. That's the value of this new resource."

Full details can be found at www.alcoholdrugsandwork.eu

---

News from the USA

New Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) Reports Now Available from NIOSH

Indoor Environmental Quality Evaluation at a Health Clinic
HHE Programme investigators evaluated symptoms that health clinic employees believed to be related to ongoing indoor environmental quality problems in the building. Investigators found that several employees reported having multiple symptoms when in the clinic, but many of these symptoms occurred when the building was being renovated. HHE Program investigators recommended that managers seal off areas of the building that are being renovated and notify employees about what they are doing to address employee concerns.
www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2010-0168-3136.pdf

Evaluation of Exposures Associated with Cleaning and Maintaining Composting Toilets
HHE Programme investigators evaluated concerns about employees' exposures during cleaning and maintaining pit and composting toilets at a national park. Investigators determined that ammonia concentrations were higher when the pit toilets were opened than when composting toilets were opened. Investigators also found thermophilic bacteria in the air when employees were working with composting toilets. Investigators recommended that the park start a voluntary vaccination program for hepatitis A virus, which maintenance crew employees may be exposed to when handling untreated human waste and trash, and hepatitis B virus for the trail and toilet maintenance crews, because they may be exposed to the virus while doing other job duties as first responders.
www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2009-0100-3135.pdf

Assessment of Mold and Indoor Environmental Quality in a Middle School
HHE Programme investigators evaluated a middle school, which they had evaluated a year prior, to reassess indoor environmental quality after mold remediation and remodeling had been completed. Investigators found that carbon dioxide levels in three classrooms were higher than recommended guidelines and found small amounts of mold growth under wood furniture and in the hallways. Investigators recommended that managers start an indoor environmental quality management program and provide at least the minimum recommended amount of outdoor air to classrooms and the library and follow current comfort guidelines for temperature and relative humidity.
www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2008-0151-3134.pdf

Nail guns - new publication from NIOSH
Nail guns are widely used on many construction jobs - especially in residen­tial construction. While they boost productivity they may also cause tens of thousands of painful injuries each year.
This new publication from the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is intended to provide a resource for residential home builders and construction contractors, subcontractors, and supervisors to prevent these kinds of injuries.
www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2011-202

---

News from CIS HQ

USE IT OR LOSE IT! Don't forget to continuously promote CIS and the Network!

Do add the CIS logo on the front page of your website would be a good first start. (Checked recently and only a few CIS Centres websites have the logo or links to CIS website).

Please do add the CIS logo on all your publications.

Any views you have on CIS and its work please send into CIS HQ - to Roman Litvyakov litvyakov@ilo.org and Seiji Machida machida@ilo.org

---

Did you know about...

The ILO Plan of action (2010-2016) to achieve widespread ratification and effective implementation of the occupational safety and health instruments (Convention No. 155, its 2002 Protocol and Convention No. 187)

The determined efforts made over recent years by the ILO and its constituents to develop a more holistic and integrated approach to the fundamental issue of occupational safety and health (OSH) culminated in the adoption by the ILO Governing Body at its 307th Session (March 2010) of a Plan of Action for achieving the widespread ratification and effective implementation of the three OSH instruments (Convention No. 155, its 2002 Protocol and Convention No. 187). This Plan of Action builds on the 2003 Global Strategy on OSH, the Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 2006 (No. 187), and the 2009 General Survey on Occupational Safety and Health.

The Plan of Action is intended to serve as a basis for concerted and broad-based action to attain a significant reduction in the unacceptable human suffering and economic losses that are still caused by work-related accidents and illnesses worldwide. The Plan of Action outlines strategies focussed on: mapping the current situation at the national level and the readiness to take action; promoting and supporting the development of a preventive safety and health culture; overcoming shortcomings in the implementation of ratified Conventions; and improving OSH conditions in small and medium-sized enterprises and the informal economy.

The modern systems approach to OSH reflected in the three key instruments is designed to encourage cooperation between governments and the social partners in the development of their national OSH programmes and strategies and the continuous improvement of their OSH infrastructure and situation. Emphasis will therefore be placed on providing support for tripartite action at the national level. Relevant issues and targets will be identified in consultation with constituents in the countries concerned and plans for action at the national level will be developed for implementation on a tripartite basis.

The Plan of Action will be implemented jointly by the Programme on Safety and Health at Work and the Environment (SafeWork) and the International Labour Standards Department (NORMES), in close collaboration with the Bureaux for Employers' Activities and for Workers Activities, as well as the relevant units at headquarters and in the field.

Download:

• English [PDF]
• Español [PDF]
• Français [PDF]

---

OSHE web sites to explore...

We look at websites in different parts of the world that are offering quality information. This month we look at selection of websites from Labour Inspectorates around the world and also includes IALI - the International Association of Labour inspectorates.

Also look in www.oshworld.com/links.html for hundreds of links to authoritative and validated web sites... constantly updated.

This collection of authoritative and validated organisations' websites are listed first alphabetically under country name and then alphabetically under the first word of the organisation. The subject index expands the information of these websites, especially where there are many important sources of information which may not be apparent from a first look at a particular web site.

If you have a favourite site which should be included in this list please email details to: sp@sheilapantry.com

And if we do not have your web site listed in www.oshworld.com please send it to me sp@sheilapantry.com

The International Association of Labour Inspection (IALI) is the global professional association for labour inspection. It was established in 1972, and currently has over 100 members worldwide.
www.iali-aiit.org/iali/html_en/welcome.html

Labour Inspectorate   AUSTRIA
www.arbeitsinspektion.gv.at
Austria's Labour Inspectorate site - the Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Arbeit, Sektion Arbeitsrecht und Arbeitsinspektion, in Vienna, Austria gives details of the work of the Inspectorate, legislation and links.

Labour Inspectorate   BELGIUM
www.emploi.belgique.be/home.aspx
The Belgian Federal Public Service Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue has a role in the implementation of de Seveso II directive 96/82/EG concerning the prevention of major accidents see also www.emploi.belgique.be/acr. Its duty is to verify that the most appropriate measures have been taken to prevent major accidents and to limit the consequences of major accidents for personnel in the enterprises. For this specific prevention task, the Department for the supervision of chemical risks has been created within the Labour Inspection. The Department for the supervision of chemical risks is a part of the Occupational Medicine and Health Administration.
Other sites for statistics: Occupational sickness fund www.fmp.fgov.be
Occupational accidents fund www.faofat.fgov.be
Wellbeing at work: www.beswic.be
Extracts of various reports are integrated in the annual report of SWW, available on the website of the www.emploi.belgique.be/moduleTab.aspx?id=556&idM=163

Labour Inspectorate   BELGIUM
www.meta.fgov.be
The English Metaguide leads you through the Belgium Federal Public Service (FPS) Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue and its competencies. It contains the structure of the FPS. The module "Publications" contains a description of the publications and where to order them directly. Certain publications can be downloaded. This module is available in Dutch and French. Most of the publications are in those two languages. The module "Statistics" contains the main statistics drawn up and published by the FPS. The module "Regulations" contains co-ordinated laws, decrees.

Labour Inspectorate   CYPRUS
www.mlsi.gov.cy/dli
Cyprus Labour Inspectorate information on OSH studies undertaken on behalf of the Department of Labour Inspection is retained at the subfolder named "Research and Studies". This information is available in Greek and English language www.mlsi.gov.cy/mlsi/dli/dli.nsf/dmlresearch_en/dmlresearch_en
Further information is available in the Annual Reports of the Department of Labour Inspection: www.mlsi.gov.cy/mlsi/dli/dli.nsf/dmlpublications_New_gr?openform&p=10&t=f&e

Labour Inspectorate   CZECH REPUBLIC
www.suip.cz
Czech State Labour Inspection Authority and individual addresses of Regional Labour Inspectorates that can be reached through the main web page of the labour inspection. Health and safety research http://cz.osha.europa.eu/systems/files/vyzkum_vyvoj_BOZP.pdf

Labour Inspectorate   ESTONIA
www.ti.ee
Estonia Labour inspectorate is a government agency operating within the area of government of the Ministry of Social Affairs whose main functions are to arrange for the exercise of state supervision in the working environment over compliance with the requirements of legislation regulating occupational health and safety and labour relations and apply enforcement by the state on the bases and to the extent prescribed by law. The web site gives other duties. There are links.

Labour Inspectorate   FRANCE
www.sante-securite.travail.gouv.fr
Ministère de l'emploi, de la cohésion sociale et du logement - espace travail web site - publications, press releases and events.

Labour Inspectorate   GERMANY
www.hsm.hessen.de
Arbeitschutz in Hessen, Social Labour Inspectorate website gives details of the activities, guidance and advice.

Labour Inspectorate   GREECE
www.ypakp.gr
Greek Labour inspectorate web site contains news and links.

Labour Inspectorate   HUNGARY
www.ommf.gov.hu
Hungarian Labour Inspectorate (HLI).Az Országos Munkabiztonsági és Munkaügyi Főfelügyelőség (OMMF) site contains information on safety at work in Hungary and links to organisations that deal with safety matters. The Hungarian Labour Inspectorate is an independent national authority under the supervision of the Minister of Employment and Labour, and was set up in 1984 to carry out occupational safety tasks of governance and defined official occupational safety tasks; its regional authorities are the Occupational Safety and Labour Inspectorates. Its legal status, responsibilities and powers are determined in the Act CXIII of 1993 on the labour safety (LSA) and in the Act LXXV of 1996 on labour inspections. The powers of Hungarian Labour Inspectorate are realised by the occupational safety and labour inspectors and directors who are working in the general competent centre and the county (capital) competent regional authorities (inspectorates). The Centre is the ILO CIS National Centre for Hungary.

Labour Inspectorate   LATVIA
www.vdi.gov.lv
The Latvia State Labour Inspectorate (SLI) is a state administrative and supervisory institution. Its activity is determined by the "State Labour Inspectorate Law". The following persons and institutions are subjected to the supervision and control of the SLI: entrepreneurs, the state and municipal institutions, religious and nongovernmental organizations, employers and their representatives according to the mandate and responsibilities delivered to them, dangerous equipment and their owners, as well as workplaces and other places at the enterprises available for the employees during their work process. The main task of SLI is to take measures to ensure effective implementation of State policy in the field of labour legal relations, labour protection and the technical supervision of dangerous equipment. Site contains history, structure, contacts, news, news releases, events, legislation, publications, statistics etc.

Labour Inspectorate   LITHUANIA
www.vdi.lt
Lithuania Labour Inspectorate web site contains details of the functions and activities, management structure.

Labour Inspectorate   LUXEMBOURG
www.itm.lu
Luxembourg Labour Inspectorate web site contains a range of topics including legislation and publications.

Labour Inspectorate   NETHERLANDS
www.arbeidsinspectie.nl
Dutch Labour Inspectorate monitors compliance with occupational safety and health legislation and regulations. It investigates violations of worker safety, takes action and provides politically relevant information. Web site contains a range of information including links. Annual plans and reports of the last three years including English summaries and a Dutch version of the multi annual strategy 2008-2011 are available.

Labour Inspectorate   POLAND
www.pip.gov.pl/html/en/html/index.htm
The National Labour Inspectorate of Poland, subordinate to the Sejm (the Lower Chamber of Polish Parliament), is a body for supervision and inspection of the observance of labour law, in particular occupational safety and health regulations and rules. The range of its activities and powers is specified in the Act on the National Labour Inspectorate of 6 March, 1981 (Journal of Laws of 2001, No 124, item 1362). Supervision over the National Labour Inspectorate - in the scope defined by the above-mentioned Act - is executed by the Labour Protection Council, appointed by the Speaker of the Sejm. The National Labour Inspectorate is managed by the Chief Labour Inspector, appointed by the Speaker of the Sejm, with the assistance of the deputies. The National Labour Inspectorate of Poland is formed by the Chief Labour Inspectorate, 16 district labour inspectorates, together with labour inspectors acting within the territorial competence of district offices. Each of the district labour inspectorates covers the area of one province with its competence. The NLI's structure also includes 42 sub-district offices. The National Labour Inspectorate runs its own training facility - the NLI's Training Centre in Wrocław, named after Prof. Jan Rosner.

Labour Inspectorate   PORTUGAL
www.act.gov.pt
Portugal Labour inspectorate web site contains a range of topics.

Labour Inspectorate   ROMANIA
www.inspectiamuncii.ro
Romania Labour Inspectorate website gives a wide range of topics and there are statistics on www.inspectmun.ro/Statistici/statistici.html

Labour Inspectorate   SLOVAKIA
www.safework.gov.sk
Slovakia National Labour Inspectorate (NLI) system main tasks in the field of labour inspection include - national and regional tasks of inspection activities, prevention activities, investigation of injuries etc., law agenda, planning, analysis, information system of NLI, control and economic activities.

Labour Inspectorate   SLOVENIA
www.id.gov.si
Slovenia Labour Inspectorate oversees implementation of laws, other regulations, collective agreements and general documents regulating employment, wages and other receipts from employment, the employment of workers at home and abroad, cooperation of workers in management, strikes and occupational safety, unless otherwise provided by regulations. The Labour Inspectorate also oversees implementation of those regulations. The Chief Inspector heads and represents the Inspectorate, organises and coordinates the work of inspectors, and within the confines of his authorisation is answerable for the legality, quality and effectiveness of the Inspectorate's work. Inspectors operate within the framework of inspection procedures organised for the individual administrative field. Employment oversight is provided by employment inspections, while occupational safety and health oversight is provided by occupational safety and health inspections. The fundamental laws in the area of oversight are the Employment Act and the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which redefine the rules for relations between workers and employers.

Labour Inspectorate   SPAIN
www.mtin.es/en/sec_sub
Inspección de Trabajo y Seguridad Social Labour Inspectorate website gives details of the activities, guidance and advice.

Labour Inspectorate   SWEDEN
www.av.se/inenglish/inspections
Sweden Labour inspectorate details and statistics www.av.se/inenglish/statistics

Labour Inspectorate   SWITZERLAND
www.iali-aiit.org
International Association of Labour Inspection is a non-governmental international organisation recognised by the International Labour Office in Geneva, Switzerland. Founded in 1972 in order to provide a professional forum for the exchange of information and experience about the work of Labour inspection and to promote closer cooperation between authorities and institutions concerned with such work. Disseminates information through its congress, symposia and workshops in collaboration with the national government of the country in which they take place.

Labour Inspectorate   UK
www.hse.gov.uk/aboutus/strategiesandplans
UK Labour Inspectorate is within the Health and Safety Executive organisation, and check out www.hse.gov.uk/enforce/index.htm to find out how enforcement is performed

---

Diary of Events

These events may inspire you to create similar training courses and conferences/seminars in your own country.

These are taken from the OSHWORLD Diary of Events see www.oshworld.com/diary.html which is intended as a guide to the wide range of Health, Safety, Fire, Chemical, Environment events, conferences, seminars, training courses and other related activities worldwide. It is updated during the first week of the month, and includes validated Internet links to further information. If you cannot attend these events the organisers are usually willing to let you have papers and other information, if you contact them.

4-6 October 2011 - Health Work & Wellness Conference 2011
Toronto, Ontario
Contact: E-mail workwell@healthworkandwellness.com | http://healthworkandwellnessconference.com

5 October 2011 - Functional Safety IEC 61508 in Action - Safety Instrumentation Integrity (Day 2 of 3)
Manchester, UK
Contact: Event Organiser: Chilworth Global | Enquire about this event | View Course Leaflet & Register Delegates (PDF Format)

6 October 2011 - Functional Safety IEC 61508 in Action - Safety Integrity Level (SIL) Workshop (Day 3 of 3)
Manchester, UK
Contact: Event Organiser: Chilworth Global | Enquire about this event | View Course Leaflet & Register Delegates (PDF Format)

6 October 2011 - Health and Safety Training for Managers and Supervisors in the Canadian Federal Jurisdiction
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Contact: Escalade Services Group Inc., 320 Hawkcliff Way NW, Calgary AB T3G 2E7, Canada | Tel: + 1 403 818 8118 or +1 866 374 1766 | Fax: +1 866 831 9645 | Email: cjodouin@escalade.ca | www.EscaladeTraining.ca

9-14 October 2011 - The Global Forum on Sanitation and Hygiene 2011: Sanitation and Hygiene in Developing Countries
Mumbai, India
Contact: For more information, or to join the mailing list for regular updates, visit www.wsscc.org/node/1251
Readers may also wish to take a free trial of FIREINF and OSH UPDATE www.sheilapantry.com/interest.html

11-13 October 2011 - AIHA Asia Pacific OH + EHS Conference
Singapore
Contact: www.aihaap.org

13-15 October 2011 - PROTEXPO-EXPOPROTECTION
Casablanca Maroc
Contact: le Salon International de la Prévention et de la Maîtrise des Risques (avec /with Ergonoma Journal) | www.protexpo-expoprotection.ma

16-21 October 2011 - RIXOS IX Conference of the International Society of Trace Element Research in Humans (ISTERH)
Premium Hotel, Belek (Antalya), Turkey
Contact: ISTERH | Email: isterh11@isterh.com | www.isterh.com | Flyer: www.icohweb.org/site_new/multimedia/events/pdf/ISTERH_2011_invitation_2010-11.pdf

17-23 October 2011 - BackCare Awareness Week UK
Schoolchildren and their teachers are the focus of this year's BackCare Awareness Week 2011. BackCare believe young backs are being damaged by overweight schoolbags and badly-designed chairs, while thousands of primary school teachers are suffering in silence from back problems.
UK
Contact: www.backcare.org.uk/7653/BCAW_2011.html

18 October 2011 - Practical Application of Process Safety to Manufacturing Within: AGROCHEMICALS
Manchester, UK
Event Organiser: Chilworth Global | Enquire about this event

18-20 October 2011 - Healthcare Canada Conference & Exhibition
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Contact: Diversified Business Communications - Canada, 110 Cochrane Drive, Unit 1, Markham, Ontario, L3R 9S1, UK | Tel +1 905 948 0470 | Fax: +1 905 479 1364 | www.ithealthcare.ca

18-20 October 2011 - World Class Process Safety Management for Power Generation: Delivering a First Class Process Safety and Asset Integrity Management Strategy for New-Build, Mid-Life and Maturing Assets
Birmingham, UK
Contact: www.tacook.co.uk/tagungen_kongresse_progr.php?id=00132

18-21 October 2011 - A+A 2011
Düsseldorf, Germany
Contact: i. A. Martin-Ulf Koch, G2-PR/ Presseabteilung - Press Department | Tel: +49 (0) 211 4560 444 | Fax: +49 (0) 211 4560 8548 | Email: KochM@messe-duesseldorf.de | www.aplusa.de

18-21 October 2011 - International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH) International Conference on Small and Medium Scale Enterprises - Learning from Good Practices in Small Workplaces
Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, Ridge, Accra, Ghana
Organised by: Ghana Health Service, the Ghana Society of Occupational and Environmental Health (GHASOEH) and Ghana Ministry of Trade and Ministry of Employment and Social Welfare
Contact: Head of Occupational and Environmental Health Department Ghana Health Service (Headquarters), Private Mail Bag, Ministries, Accra, Ghana | Tel: +233-0302-660693 | Fax: +233-0302-660693 | Email: edith.clarke@ghsmail.org

19-20 October 2011 - Naidex South
ExCeL, London
Contact: Emily Fordham, Emap Connect, Greater London House, Hampstead Road, London NW1 7EJ, UK | Tel: +44 (0)20 7728 4623 | Email: Emily.fordham@emap.com | www.naidexsouth.com

25 October 2011 - DSEAR & Pilot Plants
Southampton, UK
Event Organiser: Chilworth Global | Enquire about this event

26-29 October 2011 - First International Symposium on Mine Safety Science and Engineering
Beijing, China
The symposium is authorized by the State Administration of Work Safety and is sponsored by China Academy of Safety Science & Technology (CASST), China University of Mining & Technology (Beijing) (CUMTB), McGill University (Canada) and University of Wollongong (Australia) with participation from several other universities from round the world, research institutes, professional associations and large enterprises.
Contact: Tel: +86-10-84911521-805 or +86-10-82375620 | Email: ismsse2011@chinasafety.ac.cn | www.chinasafety.ac.cn/ismsse2011

27 October 2011 - Leading Performance Conference 2011: Bridging People, Safety and Profits
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Contact: FIOSA-MIOSA Safety Alliance of BC, 106-8615 Young Road, Chilliwack, BC. V2P 4P3 Canada | Tel: + 1604.701.0261 | Fax: +1 604.701.0262 | Email: safety@fmiosa.com | www.fmiosa.com

30 October - 4 November 2011 - National Safety Council (NSC) 2011 Congress & Expo
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Contact: www.congress.nsc.org/nsc2011/public/enter.aspx

1-2 November 2011 - IPAF, the International Powered Access Federation: 1st IPAF US Convention: Powered Access: Recognition and Avoidance of Hazards
Chicago, USA
Contact: www.ipaf.org/usconvention

3-9 November 2011 - The Professional Conference on Industrial Hygiene (PCIH) 2011 - Navigating New Opportunities
Baltimore, Maryland, USA
Contact: American Industrial Hygiene Association | Email: pcih@aiha.org | www.pcih2011.org

8-11 November 2011 -XVIII Latin American Meeting on Occupational safety and Hygiene
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Contact: www.abpa.org.br

11 November 2011 - Process Safety Management (PSM) (Day 2 of 2)
This second day re-emphasises content from day one and uses practical examples and studies to illustrate PSM concepts in greater detail. Opportunities for questions and networking with other delegates is included.
Heathrow (Windsor), UK
Event Organiser: Chilworth Global | Enquire about this event

21-27 November 2011 - UK Road Safety Week 2011 - 2young2die
UK
Contact: www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk for tips and ideas on getting involved and to complete an online form telling the charity your plans for the week.

7-8 December 2011 Tank Storage Expo and Conference
Kuala Lumpur Conference Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Contact: Nike Ajibode | Tel: +44 (0) 203002 9117 | Email: nike@tankstorageevents.com

7-10 December 2011 - 34th International Conference of Safety in Mines Research Institutes
Themes: Rescue and Disaster Management; Safety engineering and management; Mine environment and occupational health
New Delhi, India
Contact: Department of Mining Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India | Email: safetyconference11@gmail.com | www.icsmri34.in

Contact: sp@sheilapantry.com

Copyright © 2011, Sheila Pantry Associates Ltd.