CIS Newsletter

No. 163
April 2003

CIS Newsletter celebrates 15 years & still going strong! Bringing news to over 135 countries in the CIS Network

Contents

1. Editorial

2. News from Geneva

3. CIS ANNUAL MEETING, WORKSHOPS, VISITS, TALKS AND HOTEL DETAILS

4. New Director for the European Foundation

5. News from around the World - Europe, Pakistan, Russia, Ireland, USA, UK, Canada, Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand, Japan

6. Diary of Events

Editorial

Dear CIS Colleagues

2003 CIS Annual Meeting will be the week beginning 19 May 2003 in London, UK. It is good to hear from CIS colleagues who have already indicated that they are coming to London for the CIS Annual Meeting, workshops, visits and talks. So far 18 colleagues have notified of their intention to come, for example from Finland, Poland, Russia, USA, Canada, Egypt, Japan, Netherlands, Romania, UK and Switzerland. Please will you let Emmert Clevenstine and myself know that you are planning to come to London please do so as soon as possible.

See below for the programme - please will you indicate if you wish to book the visits especially so that I can let the host organisations know the numbers to expect.

This month's Newsletter contains more details of the CIS Meeting and repeat of information in case some people missed the previous editions.

REMEMBER THE MEETING IS NOW at the time of writing 2 April ONLY 6 weeks AWAY! And time flies by very quickly!!!!

Also remember to send to Geneva HQ any items which you wish to have placed on the agenda. If you wish to give a presentation please let CIS HQ and myself know so we can ensure the programme runs smoothly. You should send as soon possible any items you wish to have discussed. Also remember to send your annual reports in early.

As usual many thanks to all the contributors to this edition of your Newsletter - all news however small is most welcomed. If you are planning any publications, seminars or training courses, then please send your details to me so that we can share your efforts with others. Don't forget to send me your latest news!

Over 100 individuals and organisations have let me know that wish to receive the Newsletter by email....if you wish to join just let me know and I will send it. CIS newsletters can be found on www.sheilapantry.com click onto CIS Newsletters!

Perhaps your own website will want to link to them?

Best wishes to you 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

CIS NETWORK OF NATIONAL INFORMATION CENTRES.........
WORKING TOGETHER AND HELPING EACH OTHER....

News from CIS HQ, Geneva

Emmert Clevenstine asks:

Safety Day/Week
Will CIS Members please send details to CIS HQ any information about safety days or weeks being held in your country. CIS HQ wish to make a list and publish it.

CIS Web Portal
Despite the existence of this web site for some time there are, unfortunately only a very few entries. Send you details as soon as possible to make this web site more useful.

Update of the CIS Centres Directory
As usual, several Centres have informed us of changes in their telephone and fax numbers, e-mail addresses, logos and names. Please check the address and other coordinates of the Centres in the list of CIS Centres. You may also have a look at the Directory on the CIS Web site: www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/about/centres.htm.

You can find information on our Centres in three ways. There is an alphabetic list on a series of small, fast loading web pages. For printing purposes you can load a singe-file version as well. Using the Database of OSH Institutions and CIS Centres you can search & update the data on-line. For in-depth information, including a search engine that works on all the Centres' pages, visit our Centres Portal at www.ilo.org/safework/info/cis.

Your Annual report

Please send your annual report to CIS HQ as soon as possible. This is important for CIS to be able to see the range of activities in your country.

CIS Annual Meeting 2003

The two visits arranged are
Financial constraints are everywhere but ANY COUNTRY/CIS CENTRE RECEIVING TECHNICAL AID WHO BELIEVE THEY MAY QUALIFY FOR ASSISTANCE to go to the 2003 UK meetings SHOULD CONTACT THEIR OWN COUNTRY PROJECT TECHNICAL OFFICER IN THE FIRST INSTANCE AND IMMEDIATELY.

CIS activities during the week
NB Changes taking place all the time>>>>> read this script please

Monday 19 May 2003 and Tuesday 20 May 2003
Safety and Health Expo 2003 and RoSPA Conference - National Exhibition Centre, Halls 10, 11 and 12, Birmingham, UK

www.safety-health-expo.co.uk

or for details of the CONGRESS see www.rospa.com

This is a mega sized expo show - well worth a visit and covering:

Instructions to get the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham

1. The Euston Train Station is about 10 minutes walk from the Imperial Hotel, Russell Square, London

2. The Ticket Office is on the Concourse at the Station.

3. Cost of Day Return Tickets

To get a cheap day return you must travel after 09.30 in the morning

There are two train services are as follows - both operating from Euston Station to Birmingham National Exhibition Centre:

  1. Faster trains are the Virgin Train Service takes about 1 hour 10 minutes and the cost is Sterling £35.00 return ticket
  2. The Silverlink Train Service takes about 1 hour 45 minutes and the cost is Sterling £19.00 return ticket
  3. Take the train to Birmingham New Street Station and then transfer to the local train which runs into the National Exhibition Centre

Tuesday, 20 May 2003 @ 14.30 Visit to the British Library, St Pancras
For those not wishing to go to Birmingham, an alternative visit has being arranged to the British Library. Details as follows:

Meet Sheila Pantry at 14.00 in the Reception at the Imperial Hotel, Russell Square to walk to the British Library. Or go direct to the Reception at the British Library and be ready for 14.20 when our Guide will meet us.

There will be an opportunity to hear about the services offered and see the wonderful British Library, which is one of the world's most technological advanced national and international information services and research facilities.

It is also a splendid building.... SO Do not miss this opportunity. BUT BOOKING WITH SHEILA PANTRY IS ESSENTIAL BECAUSE TO GAIN THE MAXIMUM BENEFIT GROUPS ARE RESTRICTED TO 15 PERSON. I HAVE BOOKED ONE GROUP TO-DATE BUT CAN BOOK ANOTHER GROUP IF NUMBERS ARE LARGER .... BUT I KNOW BEFORE......

SO BOOKING ESSENTIAL

nb nb >>>>>>>>LAST DATE FOR BOOKING IS 14 MAY 2003<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

send email: sp@sheilapantry.com

OR Tel: +44 1909 771024 or FAX +44 1909 772829

Wednesday 21 May 2003
At the Imperial Hotel, Russell Square, London

Two workshops will be held:

Wednesday 21 May 2003 Morning:
Creating the electronic OSH information and knowledge service and centre.

Introduced by Sheila Pantry and Peter Griffiths, UK Government Home Office, Director of Information Services and based on their best selling new book "Creating a successful e-information service" see web site for details www.sheilapantry.com/books

There will be various other presentations and discussions.

To be successful, OSH managers constantly need to reassess the effectiveness of their information services and to ascertain whether they are really delivering the services needed by their users. In doing so it is now essential to take on board the opportunities afforded by new technology. An information service is no longer necessarily defined by the restrictions of a particular physical location or specific opening hours.

For anyone wishing to establish an electronic information/knowledge service, whatever the type or size of organization they work in, and is equally essential for those wishing to convert an existing traditional service into an e-information service. Ideas and examples of how an e-information service can be created, maintained and marketed in a cost effective way. Key issues covered include:

Wednesday 21 May 2003 Afternoon
Creating the successful OSH Publicity Campaign involving inspectors,

Workshop 2. Promotion and Publicity Ideas for CIS Centres
This will have short presentations about 20 minutes each (IS that long enough for you or do you want 30 minutes - just let me know

a) Vern Anderson NIOSH

b) Irja Laamanen FIOH

c) Sheila Pantry

d) hope to get someone else - perhaps one of the Asia or African countries.... working on this! Does anyone want to make a 10-15 minute presentation?

Then a BREAKOUT INTO GROUPS and for the delegates to think about a "topical subject" and make a PR plan - we did something similar a few years ago - but the newer technologies are helping to get messages out in various ways.

Also when we go to the HSE for the visit on Thursday 22 May 2003 I have asked them to do a session on how they organise Campaigns etc so that will be complementary to our workshops.

There will be various presentations and discussions. The participants should be able to draw up their own campaigns after this workshop and also after the visit to HSE the next day.

Wednesday Evening 18.00 - 19.30
There will be a get-together "Reception" sponsored by Sheila Pantry Associates Ltd held in the Atrium at the Imperial Hotel starting at 18.00. Rest of the evening free.

Thursday 22 May 2003 morning

10.00-13.00
Visit to the UK Health and Safety Executive, Globe Room, Rose Court, London

A number of presentations will be given by HSE staff and will complement the workshops held the previous day. HSE is the National CIS Centre.

Buffet Lunch, kindly provided by HSE will be served after the morning meeting.

Because the location of the Health and Safety Executive, Rose Court, Southwark Bridge Road which is south of the River Thames - it is proposed that people meet at the Imperial Hotel at 09.00 hours and that we go into by taxi cab (5 people to a taxi).

Thursday 22 May 2003 afternoon

14.00 - 17.00
Back at the Imperial Hotel, Tudor Room, London The 2003 CIS Annual Meeting will start. Please let Emmert Clevenstine or Sheila Pantry know if you wish to give a short (10 minutes) presentation.

Thursday evening - Free for late night shopping, theatre, music, eating or just enjoying London!

Friday 23 May 2002 09.30 - 15.00
The 2003 CIS Annual Meeting will continue.

During this time there will be two presentations:

Roger Bibbings MBE will talk about the role and activities of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). RoSPA has been in existence for over 80 years and is instrumental through its many activities in being a major "mover and shaker" in the UK OSH scene. CIS Centre staff will be interest to pick up ideas about how RoSPA has been successful

Sara Lumley, Representative from NEBOSH - the National Examining Board for Occupational Safety and Health will be introducing the new International Certificate for Occupational Safety and Health.

London Hotel Accommodation for CIS Meeting.....

To help you....

1. Arrangements have been made with the Imperial London Hotels Ltd regarding hotel bookings which people must booked themselves.

2. The Imperial Group offer the following hotels - all in the Russell Square location.

A 10% reduction of the usual price has been arranged - see details below.

If CIS members wish to share twin rooms then this of course will cut the costs again.

Imperial Hotel £65.70 single £87.30 twin room (£43.65 each if sharing) with Full English Breakfast. Ask for a quiet room looking over the Courtyard.

President Hotel £67.00 single £89.00 twin room (£44.50 each if sharing) with Full English Breakfast.

Royal National Hotel £66.00 £85.00 twin room (£42.50 each if sharing) with CONTINENTAL Breakfast ONLY

Bedford Hotel £71.00 single £94.00 twin room (£47.00 each if sharing) with Full English Breakfast.

Tavistock Hotel £61.00 single £81.00 twin room (£40.50 each if sharing) with Full English Breakfast.

All the above Hotels have ensuite bathrooms and showers, TV and Radio

There is also:
County Hotel £39.00 single £50.00 twin room (£25.00 each if sharing) with Full English Breakfast.
NOTE Without private bathrooms.

Contact: Reservations Manager, Imperial Hotel, Russell Square, London WC1B 5BB | Tel: +44 20 7278 7871 | Fax: +44 20 7837 4653 | email: info@imperialhotels.co.uk | www.imperialhotels.co.uk for further details of the hotels, map etc.

NB When making the booking mention the CIS Meeting being held in the Imperial Hotel arranged by Sheila Pantry and ensure that you have the discounted prices. Please note that Sheila cannot make your bookings - you will have to make your own reservation using credit card or other deposit.

Overlooking some of London's most beautiful garden squares The Imperial Hotels have bars, coffee shops, Internet cafes and all are within walking distance of major attractions such as the British Museum, Covent Garden, Theatreland, Oxford Street - for shopping, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and the National and Portrait Galleries.

The Imperial hotels are surrounded by a wide choice of cafes, bars, and restaurants to suit all tastes.

There are of course 100s of hotels and other guest accommodation in London, remember that London is very, very busy in the morning rush hour and public transport is very crowded and can add to your travel costs.

EUROPEAN FOUNDATION WELCOMES NEW DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Willy Buschak, former Confederal Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), takes up the reins as Deputy Director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions on 1 April 2003. Willy Buschak succeeds Eric Verborgh, who retires from the Dublin-based EU Agency after 18 years.

After studying history and philosophy at the Ruhr-Universität in Bochum, Germany, Willy Buschak started work as a research manager with the German Trade Union for Food, Beverages and Restaurant Workers. His early career involved research on trade union subjects for the Hans Böckler Foundation and the Institute for the History of the Labour Movement in Germany. In 1991, Willy Buschak started his career at the European Trade Union Confederation as Confederal Secretary, where his fields of responsibility included democratisation of the economy, health and safety at the workplace, the environment, research, consumer and industrial policy. He was appointed Managing Director of the ETUC in 2000.

Willy Buschak is no newcomer to the Foundation and its work. Over an eight-year period up to 2000, he played an important part in the Foundation's progress through his role as coordinator for the workers' group in the administrative board. He thus brings with him a deep knowledge and understanding of the Foundation's key areas of work.

The European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions is a tripartite EU body, whose role is to provide key actors in social policy making with findings, knowledge and advice drawn from comparative research. The Foundation was established by Council Regulation EEC No 1365/75 of 26 May 1975. More information about the Foundation is available on www.eurofound.europa.eu

'Enlargement is set to be a big challenge for the Foundation, as for all other EU bodies, but the Foundation is in a strong position to meet those challenges,' says Willy Buschak. 'My role will be to support the Director in building on the successes of the past as we move to tackle this new future.'

Further information on Willy Buschak (curriculum vitae, photographs, etc) is available at www.eurofound.europa.eu/press/presspack/general

Keep up with news from the European Foundation in the newsroom at www.eurofound.europa.eu/press/releases

European Green Week, 2- 5 June 2003

Business leader, policy maker, representative of an NGO and local and regional, authorities, teachers, scientists and young people,

You can now register on-line at http://ec.europa.eu/environment/greenweek for the 2003 edition of Green Week that will take place 2-5 June 2003!

Green Week 2003 intends bringing people together to debate, as a follow-up to the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg on key environmental issues of sustainable consumption and production, renewable energy & climate change and water.

We would appreciate if you could pass this message to your colleagues and networks.

We hope to see you there!

News from Pakistan

Study on Occupational Health and Safety Risk Assessment of Child Labour in Carpet weaving Sector

Saaed Awan, Director, Centre for the Improvement of Working Conditions and Environment, Lahore report on the Main Findings of the Study

These findings were published in the Annual report of Activities 2002 from the Centre for the Improvement of Working Conditions and Environment, Lahore. Other activities include:

The Report shows the wide range of progress made in a number of areas over the year, which must make the Director - Saaed Awan and the Staff very pleased.

[1] Source: Unpublished data from a survey carried out by ILO-IPEC Project on Elimination of Child Labour from Carpet Industry.

News from Russia

Dr Konstantin Todradze, Professor, First Deputy Director, All Russia Center writes....

To keep with our talks and agreements concerning cooperation I would like to submit for the "CIS News Letter" two pieces of information as follows:

Russian edition of the "ILO Encyclopaedia of occupational safety and health".
The first information applies to the public presentation of the Russian edition of the "ILO Encyclopaedia of occupational safety and health". This event took place in Moscow in July 2002 and was devoted to the issuing of the Encyclopaedia in 4 volumes of 1000 copies each in Russian. All Russian Center for Occupational Safety and Health (ARCOSH) has made arrangements to have this document translated into Russian, edited, published and distributed among interested organizations both in Russia and in the CIS countries.

At the Encyclopedia's formal presentation organized by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development of the Russian Federation, Moscow State Social University and the ARCOSH, among those present were a representative delegation from the ILO headed by the Director-General Dr. J. Somavia, Minister of Labour and Social Development of the Russian Federation - A.P. Pochinko, representatives of workers and employers organizations from Russia and CIS countries, journalists and others.

International congress "Occupational Safety & Health at Work" and Exhibition of personal protective equipment were held in Moscow during 4 days (on the 12-15 November 2002).

The second piece of news that I wish to inform you is that an International congress "Occupational Safety & Health at Work" and Exhibition of personal protective equipment were held in Moscow for 4 days, 12-15 November 2002. They were organised by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development of the Russian Federation along with the All Russian Center for Occupational Safety & Health. More than 300 delegates from Russia and guests from Germany, Estonia, Republics of Belarus, Ukraine and Israel took part in it.

Mr. V. K. Varov -Vice-Minister of Labour and Social Development of the R.F. made an official opening of the Congress. On behalf of Dr. J. Takala - chief of the ILO "Safety Work" Programs Ms. P. Barrett-Reid-Director of the ILO Moscow office warmly welcomed the Congress participants. With particular satisfaction she stressed the fact of the adjusted interaction between the ILO structures and Russian Ministry of Labour and ARCOSH.

Detailed and thorough report "Occupational safety and health at present stage of development of social and economic relations in Russia" was made by Mr. K. E. Laikam - Vice-Minister of Labour of Russia.

Interesting contribution was made on the Session by the Director of the Safety center in construction Mr. K.-H. Naitel (FRG). Representatives from Ukraine and Belarus reported on elaboration of their own legislation on the occupational safety and health at work and on usage of the Russian experience in this process.

The opportunity to visit above mentioned specialized exhibition was provided for all foreign participants of the Congress. The guests appraised at its true worth the quality of production, colorful and unique design of the exhibits.

At present we are in the process of completion of the Annual report concerning the activity of the National information center in 2002 for the ILO. As soon as it is ready a copy of it will be sent to you for the "CIS Newsletter".

Titles, books, standards and software you may have missed...........

Business Continuity Management

From Technical Standards Services Ltd. www.tssonline.net

Two new publications from the British Standards Institution/Business Continuity Institute and PennWell to assist with disaster planning and management.

PAS 56:2003 Guide to Business Continuity Management

Don't just wait until an incident occurs! Use business continuity management to increase your organization's resilience to disruption, interruption or loss in supplying its products and services. The new PAS 56 from BSI shows you how.

BSI, in conjunction with the Business Continuity Institute, (BCI) has just published a guide which clearly establishes the process, principles and terminology of BCM. PAS 56 describes the activities and outcomes involved in establishing a BCM process, and provides recommendations for good practice. It provides a generic BCM framework for incident anticipation and response and describes evaluation techniques and criteria.

ISBN: 0580413705. Published March 2003

Price: £52.00 (GB Pounds) or $86.00 (US Dollars) or 81.00 (Euro) For further details, and to order online or offline www.tssonline.net

Integrated Business Continuity. Maintaining Resilience in Uncertain Times
By Geary W. Sikich

Rapid change in the business environment is the new norm. The way organizations operate is changing as new and better technologies become available. The ability to effectively respond to and manage disruptions in a timely manner is now the deciding factor in any organization's survivability. "Integrated Business Continuity: Maintaining Resilience In Uncertain Times" guides you step-by-step through developing and assessing an effective business continuity plan.

ISBN: 0878148655. 283 Pages/2003

Price: £49.00 (GB Pounds) or $75.00 (US Dollars) or €72.00 (Euro)

For further details, and to order online or offline, click on www.tssonline.net

An online ordering facility with secure server plus full ordering information is provided on this web site. Ordering information, for both online and offline ordering, includes details of postage charges and an order form for you to fax, post or email if you do not wish to order online.

Alternatively, contact us direct at Technical Standards Services Ltd., 3 Bury Mead Road, Hitchin, Herts, SG5 1RT, UK | Telephone: +44 1462 453211 | Fax: +44 1462 457714 | Email: sales@techstandards.co.uk

Online Stress Relief

EssentialSkillz (www.EssentialSkillz.com) are launching Stress Essentials, an online stress awareness course, and Stress Risk Assessment, their online stress survey software at the Safety & Health Expo at the NEC, Birmingham 19 May- 22 May 2003

The beautifully illustrated and easy to use online course provides employers with a flexible and cost-effective resource to help them manage the growing problem of workplace stress. Recent statistics from the UK Health and Safety Commission show that of the 40 million working days lost due to illness and work-related injuries in 2001, a record 13.4 million working days were lost due to stress-related illness.

This is a familiar pattern in other countries.

Stress Essentials is designed to compliment organisational stress management initiatives. Successful completion of the training will raise awareness as to what stress is, some likely sources of stress, the range of symptoms, likely effects, and options available to help control it.

Complimenting the 50-minute training course is a customisable risk assessment questionnaire to help companies measure and respond to stress hot spots within their organisation.

EssentialSkillz courses are delivered via the Internet, or company intranet, and are supported by a comprehensive Learning Management System, which tracks all training and provides employers with records and a host of features to easily manage online training and risk assessment programmes. Tackling stress with this engaging and enjoyable course won't cause organisations any financial stress either as Stress Essentials costs only £5 per person!

About EssentialSkillz

EssentialSkillz, based in Galway (Ireland) and Macclesfield (Cheshire, UK), provide a range of online safety training courses. Their DSE training and risk assessment solution was awarded the Minister's Award by the Health & Safety Authority. Demos of EssentialSkillz courses can be found on their website at www.EssentialSkillz.com.

For more information, contact Tony Dervan, Managing Director on (07092) 221122 or by email, tony@essentialskillz.com | Ireland Tel: +353 91 503090 | UK Tel: +44 7092 221122 | www.EssentialSkillz.com

PPE Made Easy: A Comprehensive Checklist Approach to Selecting and Maintaining Personal Protective Equipment, Jeffrey O. Schull, International Personnel Protection, Government Institutes Division of ABS Consulting

Another excellent review of a book from the US Government Institutes. This review by Tom Gallanders.

"He [the author] has put together a comprehensive guide..." "This really is a 'what you always wanted to know but never knew where to find it' kind of book. I thought up all kinds of tricky questions..." "...this is the best book of its kind available...."

Quoted from a review in the April 2003 issue of Health and Safety at Work and reproduced by permission of the publishers.

Managing Change for Safety & Health Professionals, F. David Pierce, Government Institutes Division of ABS Consulting

"Change within the workplace has become increasingly commonplace.... The declared aim of this book was to offer a successful method for implementing change with a view to ensuring the survival of the safety and health industry.... ...a comprehensive and well-written publication....could just as easily have been 'Managing Change'. ..... The advice provided....is equally relevant to businesses in the UK and the US. So if you are about to implement change in your company, you could do a lot worse than read this book first."

Quoted from a review in the March 2003 issue of Health and Safety at Work and reproduced by permission of the publishers.

Constant Communication is a Health Risk for Office Workers

Constant communication by email and telephone is making the UK's office population increasingly deskbound and giving rise to a string of health complaints, as well as having a negative impact upon efficiency in the office. These are the findings of new research, commissioned by GN Netcom, a leader in cordless communications.

The research, conducted in January 2003, questioned 252 office-based workers in a variety of administration, finance, helpdesk, sales & marketing and management roles. It discovered that:

Commenting on the research, Ann Brooks, principal consultant at Ergonomics in Practice, said: "Many people now multi-task while on the telephone, which usually means wedging the phone between ear and shoulder while they type or write. This posture is extremely bad for the neck and shoulder, especially if held for long periods, and can result in discomfort in these areas, sometimes leading to longer-term injury. Headsets can reduce the musculoskeletal risks to office workers by allowing them to adopt safe postures while using the telephone and multi-tasking. Cordless headsets combine these benefits with the potential to stand up and move around during the day - a considerable advantage given that prolonged sitting is one of the greatest health risks to deskbound staff."

Administration or office management

Those in administrative roles were amongst the most intensive phone users, with 19% spending between 4-6 hours on the phone per day. In this group of workers 35% said fewer interruptions from the phone would improve their efficiency.

Credit Control & Finance

These dedicated employees are more likely than most to be deskbound, with 41% spending 7 hours or more sitting at their desk. This is reflected in the fact that one in four said their biggest gripe was sitting in the worst location in the office. Those working in credit control or finance also spend much more time on the phone than on email. The majority (53%) of credit control and finance workers spend less than an hour checking their emails. Yet, they are least likely to wear a telephone headset.

Helpdesk/Customer Service

Not surprisingly, helpdesk and customer service staff spend most time 'chained to their desks', with 20% spending 7 hours or more on the 'phone and 5% spending 7 hours or more on email. More surprisingly, only 30% of helpdesk employees wear a headset, which may explain why almost half (49%) suffer from neck and shoulder ache and 44% from backache.

Management

Managers have most freedom to roam around in the office, with a relatively small proportion (31%) spending more than seven hours sitting at their desk. As a consequence they suffer less from aches and pains, although 51% claimed they suffered from stress. A personal assistant would have the single most positive impact on their performance, with 35% of managers choosing this option, ahead of fewer interruptions from phone calls (27%) and being able to move around while on the phone (18%). One in ten managers now wears a headset at work!

Sales and Marketing

Sales and marketing professionals, work the longest hours at their desks, resulting in high stress levels, running at 51%. They are also the biggest gadget lovers, with 36% saying the latest gadgets and equipment would have the greatest positive impact on their performance at work. Not surprisingly, they are more likely than any other group to wear a headset with 32% saying they have adopted this communications gadget. Maybe this explains why a staggering 96% have the ability to multi-task while on the telephone!

A truly cordless headset for today's office professionals

In conjunction with the research, GN Netcom is launching the GN 9120, a truly cordless headset designed especially for the demanding needs of today's office professionals.

Designed for on the move office professionals, the GN 9120 gives up to a 100?metre range of mobility, and delivers up to eight hours of talk time. The headset is completely free of cords, and call answer and termination as well as volume controls are located on the headset and can be operated within its range.

Unique to the GN 9120 is the conferencing feature that enables up to four headsets to join together on one call. This offers a crystal clear alternative to speakerphones, allows conference calls to take place outside the confines of a meeting room and also cuts down on expenses as conference calls can be held over only one telephone line connection.

GN Netcom is a world leader in hands-free communications technologies and specialises in the design and manufacture of high-quality headsets. GN Netcom has production facilities in Europe, the United States and Asia with distributors in more than 75 countries around the world. GN Netcom is part of the GN Great Nordic Group, a 130-year old holding company headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark. GN Netcom also provides OEM products to familiar brand name companies.

Ann Brooks is principal consultant at Ergonomics in Practice and regularly advises companies on how to reduce the health risks to their staff working in office environments. She co-authored a report for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on the health and safety aspects of portable computer use and has been involved in the development of HSE guidance on both upper limb disorders and Display Screen Equipment. She is a Registered Member of the Ergonomics Society and sits on its Council.

More information can be found at www.gnnetcom.com

DIFFERENCES IN WORKING TIME ACROSS EUROPE REMAIN SUBSTANTIAL

Average weekly working hours remain longest in Greece, Finland and Belgium, and shortest in France, the Netherlands and Denmark, according to a recent report from the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, the Dublin-based EU-agency.

The report also shows average collectively agreed weekly working hours throughout the EU and Norway remain stable at around 38.2 hours, with no major reduction in working time over the last four years. However, working time reduction is still a central demand for the trade union movement according to the new report.

'Collective bargaining plays a key role in determining the duration of working time in all countries considered in the report,' says Raymond-Pierre Bodin, the Foundation's Director. 'But the nature of this role differs widely between countries, with different bargaining levels (intersectoral, sectoral, or company levels) playing different parts, and bargaining coverage varying between 70% to 100%.'

The report also provides figures on collectively agreed weekly work hours in the chemical, retail and civil service sectors.

The full report is available on www.eiro.eurofound.eu.int/2003/03/Update/TN0303103U.html

Leap Forward in Left-Handed Design

Left-handers of all ages and interests will be able to benefit from a range of innovative new products being launched this month by specialist retailer Anything Left-Handed Ltd, on their website www.anythingleft-handed.com

Greater understanding by product designers of left-handers' needs has led to an increase of specifically left-handed items being developed, and Anything Left-Handed are delighted to add a host of new products, including the first ever left-handed camera, garden & DIY equipment and children's developmental games to the huge range of household and stationery products already featured on their award-winning website.

Full details of this exciting new product range, a comprehensive information resources on all aspects of left-handedness and details on joining the International Left-Handers Club are available at www.anythingleft-handed.com, from their London store at 57 Brewer Street, Soho, London W1F 9UL, United Kingdom or by calling +44 (0)208 770 3722 for a free catalogue.

Anything Left-Handed is the world-leading specialist retailer of left-handed products.

News from Canada

INFO IRSST Latest update contains:

www.irsst.qc.ca/media/documents/en/InfoIrsst/Archives/InfoIRSST_v01n2.htm

Pleasant reading!

Jacques Blain, IRSST, Informathèque, 11ième étage, 505, de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montéal, P.Québec, Canada H3A-3C2 | www.irsst.qc.ca | Email to: blain.jacques@irsst.qc.ca

OSHmail: Electronic newsletter from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work

The latest electronic newsletter from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work - OSHmail number 19 - 2003. OSHmail is published every two weeks in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish contains the following news:

It also contains European Union News

International News contains:

oshmail@OSHA.EU.INT

Why go to extremes? . . . Register for FREE now! . . . for the SHE show, 19-22 May 2003, Birmingham, UK

Whether it's to meet up to 300 suppliers of safety & health products and services; to sit in on a FREE informative presentation within The Information Theatre; to congratulate the winners of the Product Innovation Awards or simply to keep up to date or source new suppliers - you need to attend Safety & Health Expo 2003 which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, UK from 19th - 22nd May 2003.

Running alongside the exhibition is the annual RoSPA Congress.

This year's theme "Strengthening the Team Approach" tackles the latest thinking on many issues including, Team based target setting, Changing Cultures, Improving safety learning and sharing to name a few. For more information and the full programme contact RoSPA for a congress brochure on +44 (0)870 777 2120

Registering for the Safety & Health Expo 2003 exhibition is quick and easy and you can do it for FREE today saving you time and money.

Don't go to extremes register for FREE today

Are you being polluted in your car?

Air contaminants can build up inside your car, polluting the air you breathe. A new device called the AutoMate can purify the air around you as you drive. The AutoMate Car Air Purifier produces clean, fresh air, which is circulated throughout the car. Just plug it into the cigarette lighter socket and it goes to work, cleaning away airborne impurities.

Recent research by the RAC found that common air contaminants such as dust, soot and smog were between twice and six times as concentrated inside vehicles as in roadside air. Air conditioning and ventilation systems that draw air into your car bring in petrol fumes, diesel smoke, airborne dust and a mixture of other pollutants. If the car windows are closed, these contaminants have no effective escape route, and so build up inside the vehicle.

AutoMate uses 'Corona Discharge' technology to project a powerful stream of trillions of ions per second, effectively cleansing the air. This ionic flow incinerates viruses and bacteria and oxidizes chemical contaminants, rendering them harmless. Purified, odour-free air is ejected from the unit at a velocity of over 50 feet per minute.

'Corona Discharge' technology is based on the natural cleansing process that occurs during a thunderstorm, when negative, high-energy ions pass through airborne pollutants, 'zapping' toxic air particles. It has been used by the military and in industry for years, but the technology has only now been miniaturized, permitting the development of the AutoMate. Made by Los Angeles based Wein Products Incorporated, it contains a solid platinum emitter, making it the most powerful of any in-car air purifier.

A study at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center showed the safety and effectiveness of ionic air purifiers in preventing the inhalation of dangerous pollutants and germs. The yearlong study by eminent researchers in air pollution science concluded that they can substantially prevent the inhalation of toxic particles such as smoke, dust, pollens, moulds, many allergens, fungi and germs.

With no filters to change, Automate is completely maintenance free, and its tough polycarbonate casing helps ensure long life. AutoMate is now being distributed in the UK by health products inventor, Neil Summers. "The miniaturized technology that goes into the AutoMate is truly amazing," says Neil. "It's so simple to use and the health benefits are obvious."

The AutoMate is priced at £49 inclusive of postage and packing.

ENANEF Ltd. Beechwood House, King George's Hill, Abinger Bottom, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6JW, UK | Tel: +44 (0) 870 753 3765 | Fax: +44 (0)1306 731652

or contact: Marianne Wilson, PRotocol, 19 Fernbank Road, Redland, Bristol BS6 6QA | Tel: +44 (0)117 944 5226 | Mob: 07796 690 326 | Email: mw@protocolpr.co.uk

News from the Netherlands

To improve epidemiological expertise in all countries of Europe, and particularly those in Eastern Europe, the Netherlands institute for health sciences (n i h e s) offers limited fellowships to young, talented and motivated clinicians, epidemiologists and public health professionals to participate in the Erasmus Summer Programme 2003.

You may know colleagues in Eastern Europe to whom these fellowships could be of interest. We would greatly appreciate if you could bring this e-mail to their attention.

The Erasmus Summer Programme comprises modules on biostatistics, clinical research, public health, genetics and epidemiology taught by leading international experts. The first week provides introductory courses, the second week is devote! d to methodology courses and the third week offers advanced courses. It is possible to mix and match courses from different disciplines in order to design your own individual programme. The programme starts on August 11 and runs until August 29, 2003. Courses are held in the Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

More information can be found on our website www.nihes.nl

We look forward to your application!

Contact: Nancy Bergwerff, Netherlands Institute for Health Sciences (n i h e s), Erasmus MC, PO Box 1738, 3000 DR Rotterdam The Netherlands

or Jan Michiel Meeuwsen, TNO Work and Employment, P.O. Box 718, 2130 AS Hoofddorp, THE NETHERLANDS | Tel: + 31 (0)23 55 49 427 | Fax: +31 (0)23 55 49 394 | Email: j.meeuwsen@arbeid.tno.nl | www.arbeid.tno.nl

New publication from the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions: Towards a sustainable corporate social responsibility

Successful corporate social responsibility is the result of open dialogue involving all stakeholders and incorporating their different expectations, according to a new report from the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions. The report also highlights the need to view CSR as a process, not a product, and recommends integrating the concept into the very core of companies' business models.

The report looks at restructuring and subcontracting and the effects of corporate involvements in local community and economic regeneration, and the promotion of environmentally acceptable practices. It includes a series of EU company case studies, examining socially responsible practices in the fields of employment, local community and the environment. However, the report reveals that the inclusion of CSR on the agenda of in-house social dialogue remains limited.

To effectively promote and apply CSR, the report identifies several possible approaches. Firstly, it suggests incorporating all stakeholders in a wide range of discussions in parallel to social dialogue, covering the growing number of topics under the CSR umbrella. Another approach would integrate CSR into the social dialogue - this risks however, slowing down the collaborative process and alienating

the company management's drive and commitment. A third approach could include all stakeholders into the process - companies, social partners, and the local community - which would strengthen dialogue between all stakeholders.

The report argues that a further factor in developing successful CSR is to harness the personal commitment of company leaders to the concept and to foster CSR among small and medium sized companies, who often lack the necessary financial and human resources.

The full report is available on www.eurofound.europa.eu/publications/htmlfiles/ef0317.htm

Keep up with news from the European Foundation by checking their newsroom at www.eurofound.europa.eu/press/releases

Mandatory retirement is a 'no no'. Survey shows people think age is irrelevant in the workplace

The latest Age, Pensions and Retirement: Attitudes and Expectations survey from people management experts the UK Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), shows that the majority of people do not consider a person's age relevant to their ability to do a good job. Sixty per cent believe that skills and personality are the critical factors and fifty-nine per cent do not believe there should be a mandatory retirement age.

Twenty per cent of those surveyed said that they had been discouraged from applying for a job as the recruitment advert in some way communicated an age restriction. Two in five felt that they had been discriminated against, with age being the number one reason for the discrimination (35% of those who feel they have been discriminated against, compared with 14% for gender, 26% for education and background, 5% for disability and 2% for race).

44% of people said they would like to continue working for their current employer past their mandatory retirement age - rising to 51% of the over 50s. Eighty seven per cent of the retired respondents did not have any form of paid employment - reflecting current retirement patterns, which see the majority of people moving from full time working into full time retirement overnight - with nothing in-between.

The CIPD is urging organisations to become more progressive in their approach to the employment of older workers. The Institute believes that a mandatory retirement age is now nonsense. Dianah Worman, CIPD Adviser on Diversity says: "Organisations are failing to access the talent and experience of mature and experienced workers. Some organisations still seem to think that older workers are 'past it' and are stereotyping what the over 50s can and can't do.

"Given that the average age of the workforce is increasing because of population changes, employers need to provide themselves and older workers with more flexibility and choice over the length of working lives. It is in all our interests to do this".

"We know that older workers are often keen to be flexible in the last few years of their working lives and organisations should be looking to tap into their talent, skills and experience."

The survey also shows that 42% of those surveyed think that their organisation is working to encourage the employment of older workers. Says Worman: "This shows we are moving in the right direction. If more organisations can think creatively about the employment and retention of older workers by, for example, bringing in flexible or phased retirement, part-time working or job sharing, we will have given a kick start to the achievement of real progress."

A copy of the survey can be downloaded from: www.cipd.co.uk/surveys or Tel: +44 (0)208 263 3355

Agency launches online guide to safer work in Europe's health care sector

The European Agency has launched a new online guide to occupational health and safety advice for the health care sector as part of a major redesign of its network of information websites.

According to the most recent European research, the work-related accident rate in the health care sector is 34% higher than the EU average. In addition, the sector has the second highest incidence rate of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, after construction. And with one in ten of EU workers working in the sector, health care is also one of Europe's biggest employment sectors, covering a vast range of different jobs.

Agency Director, Hans-Horst Konkolewsky, commented: "The Agency's web feature will enable anyone who's involved in risk prevention in the health care sector to get access to safety and health information, which is up-to-date and practical. We hope that it will contribute to improved safety and health performance in the sector. This is not only for the benefit of the workers themselves. Prevention of work-related injuries and health problems cuts costs and contributes to improving organisational performance, which in turn will lead to better patient care."

The Agency web feature at http://osha.europa.eu/en/sector/healthcare covers all of the main risks facing health care workers including:

With more than 500 links to quality-evaluated information sources across the EU and beyond, the feature provides practical advice on issues as diverse as avoiding needle injuries to managing shift work more effectively.

Health care is just one of a growing number of employment areas and safety and health topics included in the Agency's online information service. Improved navigation and a fresh new look make using the Agency's network website at http://europe.osha.eu.int even easier. One-click shortcuts provide users with instant access to priority topics such as accidents, stress and MSDs as well to information on the changing world of work or high risk sectors such as fisheries. Printer-friendly web pages make it easier to transfer the information from the computer screen to the workplace. Other features of the new-look site include an 11-language interface, links to automated translation services and a regularly updated international safety and health news service.

The site provides access to global information on legislation and regulations, good safety and health practice, research, statistics, training and other fields. Network partners include the International Labour Organization and the World Health Organisation as well as specialist safety and health institutions in more than 30 European countries, Australia, Canada and the United States.

European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Via 33, E-48009 Bilbao - Spain | Tel: + 34 94 479 4360 | Fax: + 34 94 479 4383 | e-mail: information@osha.eu.int

REVIEW OF EUROPEAN DIRECTIVES ON PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND WORKPLACE SAFETY

The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is seeking employers and workers views on the European Commission (EC) directives on workplace health, safety and welfare and on personal protective equipment.

The HSE review will evaluate the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 to ensure that the regulations are cost effective, meet the needs of business whilst ensuring they protect the health and safety of employees, and fulfil our commitment to implement the EC Workplace Directive (89/654/EEC) and the EC Directive on Personal Protective Equipment (89/656/EEC). As part of this evaluation HSE is asking employers and safety representatives for their views on a questionnaire which can be downloaded from the HSE website.

Dr William Gillan, HSE Head of General and Technical Safety Policy, said "HSE needs to take account of stakeholders' views in judging how effective we have been in implementing the directives. We are keen to hear views from people who have responsibilities for health and safety in the workplace (in both small and large firms) including safety representatives. An easy to complete questionnaire covering both sets of regulations has been produced. This will help us to find out, for example, how well the regulations are known and understood".

HSE is required by the EC to produce its second five-year report on the implementation of Directive 89/656/EEC, which was implemented in the UK in part through the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992; and Directive 89/654/EEC, which was implemented through the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

The questionnaire is available to download from the HSE website at www.hse.gov.uk/spd/pdf/question.pdf

Those who would like a hard copy should contact either Colin Dunn (Tel 0207 717 6623) or Ruth Ludbrook (Tel 0207 717 6963). The deadline for returning the questionnaire is Friday 30 May. 2003.

Virus Protection

Whether you're concerned about breathing in a deadly new virus or germ warfare bugs, here's a product that can provide substantial protection. The MiniMate has been shown to significantly reduce exposure to microscopic airborne particles in the same size range as Anthrax and Smallpox.

From the Los Angeles laboratories of Wein Products Inc., the MiniMate is worn on a cord around the neck and produces an 'ionic wind' that pushes away airborne particles in the breathing zone, so you breathe cleaner, purer air. This ionic breeze, created by revolutionary 'Corona Discharge' technology, has also been shown to kill a wide range of airborne germs from .3 to 3 microns in size.

In case you're thinking this sounds like science fiction, Wein does have the credentials to support their claims. The company has received commendations for assisting public safety from the US Department of Justice (for aiding the FBI), from the Los Angeles Police Department Bomb Squad and from the British Ministry of Defence.

Although the MiniMate has been successfully tested against simulated Anthrax spores in laboratory conditions, what is equally as convincing is the growing number of US wearers who swear that the device protects them from common allergies such as pollen and animal fur. If it protects against breathing in allergen particles, then it can be effective against other particles too, not only viruses but also dust, smoke, mould spores and bacteria.

According to Professor of Emeritus, Dr. Klaus Willeke, "While still airborne these aerosol particles, virulent or not, all obey the same laws of gravity, diffusion, aerodynamics and electrostatics and can be controlled by these forces."

The MiniMate works on the principle of keeping particles away from the lungs, where they can do us damage. More than 10 times more effective in tests than a similar Sharper Image product, Wein's MiniMate is the most advanced technology of its type on the market. Its 'Corona Discharge' technology emulates nature to create the fresh, clean air that follows a thunderstorm. Just like in a storm, negative high-energy ions pass through the air, 'zapping' toxic air particles and leaving it clean.

Using long life lithium batteries, MiniMate is small, light and easy to use - just put it round your neck and switch it on. It's also a great deal more discreet than the only safer alternative, a full biosafety suit! The miniaturised technology of MiniMate makes it just 6.4cm x 3.8cm x 2.2cm in size and only 43 grams in weight.

MiniMate is now available in the UK for the first time from health product inventor, Neil Summers, who has taken on the distributorship. "You can't help but be impressed by the efficiency of the MiniMate technology," says Neil. "Whether you're on a plane, in your car or on a train, this is such a simple way of achieving substantial protection from germs as well as some peace of mind."

MiniMate is priced at £99 inclusive of postage and packing.
Call: +44 0870 753 3765.

Marianne Wilson, PRotocol, 19 Fernbank Road, Redland, Bristol BS6 6QA | Tel: +44 (0)117 944 5226 | Mob: 07796 690 326

Australia's smoke free Irish pubs?

Australia's Irish pubs and clubs were urged to follow Ireland's lead on St Patrick's Day, 17 March, and declare their venues smoke free. Ireland's political leaders have agreed on legislation which will see all workplaces smoke free including pubs and bars by the end of the year.

'That means if Australia's Irish pubs and clubs want to be authentically Irish, then they should go smoke free at least for the day - and hopefully for good' said SmokeFree '03 coalition spokesperson Terry Noone of the Musicians' Union. Moves towards clean air status by Irish pubs and clubs in Australia, such as smoke free areas and special nights, have met with customer approval, says the campaign, with none reporting any loss of trade.

No-one added that hospitality workers 'are enduring dangerous conditions which would not be expected in any other industry. Governments should legislate to protect all workers and create a level playing field for all workplaces, including pubs and clubs.'

Contact: http://workers.labor.net.au/170

Let's go surfin' now... Canadians find health information

More and more Canadians are turning to the Internet to find the health information they need... Read more:

http://www.canadian-health-network.ca/html/newnotable/mar15a_2003e.html

Cell phones and driving

You'll survive a missed phone call; you might not survive a collision!

Read more: www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/SafeDrivers-distractions-index-52.htm

European Industrial Relations Observatory (EIRO): Annual update on pay developments 2002........Reversal in upward trend of agreed pay increases

Average nominal pay increases declined by 0.3%, to only a 3.5% rise in 2002, for the first time in three years. This downturn effectively ends the upward trend in pay increases since 1999 (2.9% in 1999, 3.2% in 2000 and 3.8% in 2001) and is a direct result of calls for wage moderation at EU and national levels.

The average nominal agreed increase in the three candidate countries considered (Hungary, Slovakia and Poland) was far above the EU and Norway average at over 6% in 2002.

'The average increase fell from 2001 to 2002 in eight countries, with pay moderation most evident in Ireland, Portugal, Finland, the Netherlands and the UK,' says Raymond-Pierre Bodin, Director of the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, the EU-agency behind the report. 'However, the rate of increase rose in five countries, most notably Greece and Germany, and remained stable in two, Sweden and Denmark.'

The average real pay increase (adjusting nominal figures for inflation) in 2002 also fell to 0.7 % in the EU Member States, down from 0.8% in 2001.

Over the five-year period 1998-2002, the EU Member States and Norway can be divided into:

Women in all countries covered in the report earn, on average, less than men.

The full comparative report on pay developments 2002 is available at www.eiro.eurofound.eu.int/2003/03/Update/TN0303102U.html

The European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions is a tripartite EU body, whose role is to provide key actors in social policy making with findings, knowledge and advice drawn from comparative research. The Foundation was established by Council Regulation EEC No 1365/75 of 26 May 1975. More information about the Foundation is available on www.eurofound.europa.eu/about

Further information regarding this press release or any other information from the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, please contact Mr. Måns Mårtensson, press officer, at tel: +353-1-204 3124, mobile: +353-876-593 507, or e-mail: press.officer@eurofound.eu.int

Keep up with news from the European Foundation in our newsroom at www.eurofound.europa.eu/press/releases

Worldwide Workshops on improving work-related road safety

Nottingham Business School's Centre for Automotive Industries Management in the UK, the New Zealand AA Driver Education Foundation and the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety - Queensland (CARRS-Q) are launching a series of management development workshops on work-related road safety.

Fleet or work-related road safety is emerging as an important issue in the UK, Australia and New Zealand offering a range of societal, business, legal and financial opportunities. For this reason a one-day management development workshop has been designed, based on our research findings over the past 15 years. Over 500 delegates have already attended this program in the UK and Australia.

The workshops will examine the costs, causes and countermeasures for improving work-related road safety, and will introduce the newly researched WIPE model.

On successful completion participants will obtain an insight into:

Other benefits include:

The workshops will run from 9am to 4-30pm at the following locations.

Date, location and cost per participant

For a brochure with more information and booking instructions:

UK: see the internet at www.nbs.ntu.ac.uk/depts/CAIM or contact Dr Will Murray by email will.murray@ntu.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)115 -848-4234)

New Zealand: contact Peter Sheppard by email: PSheppard@nzaa.co.nz or telephone (04 931 9968)

Australia: contact Judy Williams by email: 4.williams@qut.edu.au or telephone (07 3864 4568)

Dr Will Murray, Principal Lecturer, Centre for Automotive Industries Management (CAIM), Nottingham Business School, Nottingham Trent University, NG1 4BU, UK | Tel: +44 (0)115 848 4234 | Fax: + 44 (0)115 848 6037 | Email: will.murray@ntu.ac.uk | Web: www.nbs.ntu.ac.uk/depts/CAIM

Been wondering what is happening in the occupational health and safety field on a global basis?

The CIS Newsletter is a monthly newsletter from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) - International Occupational Health and Safety Information Centres (CIS) and is edited by Sheila Pantry OBE.

The CIS Newsletter is not an official publication of the ILO but a newsletter containing information from CIS Centres and other sources. You are encouraged to use and pass on the information you find useful from these newsletters.

For a listing of CIS newsletters available on the web, please visit: www.sheilapantry.com/cis

News from the European Union

The Activities page on EUROPA has been completely updated. With improved structure and graphics, the site brings together information and links from all of the EU Institutions and agencies to provide 'mini-portals' for each policy area of the EU.

The site provides details of 30 different policy areas. Each has a brief general overview, and you can also look at the latest brochure from the 'Europe on the Move' series.

Key sites from the European Parliament, Council of the EU and the European Commission are listed, along with links to other relevant EU Institutions and Agencies. Links are also provided to clear summaries of EU legislation provided by SCADPlus.

Each page will be kept up to date with the latest news and developments. There is a special section at the top of each page for news headlines, and the 'press releases' link in the documentation section sorts out all the relevant press releases from the EU press service's 'Rapid' database.

There are also tools for more extensive research. The section on legal texts provides the relevant section of the Treaty establishing the European Community, existing legislation and legislation in preparation. You can also find details of recent case-law from the European Court of Justice and the Court of First Instance. Regular updates from the Bulletin of the European Union and the General Report on the Activities of the European Union are also provided.

In this way each page brings together all the information and communication products to provide an inter-institutional thematic index for the EU. What's more, you can easily switch between policy areas using the navigation bar on the left hand side of the screen.

http://europa.eu/pol

New Look for Canada's Workplace Health Centre!

Canada's Workplace Health Centre began the year with a new look and up-dated features that make it even easier to find the information you need!

We'd like to know what you think of the new look and features. Please email Sandra Clark sandrac@ccohs.ca with any feedback, or suggestions for features you'd like to see.

Please be sure to visit us at:

Workplace Health
www.canadian-health-network.ca/1workplace_health.html

Santé en milieu de travail
www.canadian-health-network.ca/2sante_en_milieu_de_travail.html

What is a Scent-Free Workplace?

Most people love the smell of cookies baking in the oven, or how about freshly brewing coffee? But what if you walk into a room and noticed an offensive odour of some sort? How about if you had to work with that odour daily? Would you think it would bother you then?

It is possible that health effects can be caused by perfumes and other scented products. When scented products have been blamed for causing health problems, the symptoms include:

The severity of these symptoms can vary. Some people report mild irritation while others are "harmed" and/or must give up many 'normal' activities, such as going to public places in order to avoid exposure.

What products contain scents?

Typically, individuals who believe scented products make them unwell react to many substances found in daily lives and in the workplace such as:

Remember that in some cases, products labelled "unscented" have actually had other chemicals added to hide the original scent.

What are some modifications that a workplace can make?

Basic modifications can be made within the workplace to help those who suffer from the effects of scented products.

Most of the time when somebody responds to a chemical, they are responding to an odour. Therefore, odour perception is almost always going to be the first cue that there is a chemical in the environment.

What are some guidelines a workplace can follow?

If the source of the problem is an employee's use of scents, a general guideline may be to ask that person to modify the use of their scent by using a lighter scent or less of it. A scent should not be noticeable at more than an arm's length from the individual.

Maintain good indoor air quality. Have good ventilation and make sure that air is being replaced with fresh air. Reduce all emissions from building materials, cleaning products, etc., to decrease the amount of poor air being recycled throughout the building.

Talk to your supervisor and share your concerns about any scented products that are affecting your health in that area of the workplace.

Resources for: What is a Scent-Free Workplace?

No scents is good sense
Source: Canada's Occupational Health and Safety Magazine (OHS Canada)
www.ohscanada.com

Scent-free policy for the workplace
Source: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)
www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/scent_free.html

No scents makes good sense: facts about scents
Source: The Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association
www.nf.lung.ca/noscents.html

Article in CHN
www.canadian-health-network.ca/1workplace_health.html

Titles from the European Union

New titles uploaded on the Europa web site:

Learning for employment: a second report on vocational education and training policy in Europe
Language: English Version: 1.0 Size: 27847
http://forum.europa.eu.int:80/Members/irc/opoce/publish/library?l=/manuscripts_available/employment_related/learning_cedefop/_EN_1.0_&a=i

The Velvet Curtain. A Journey along the Eastern Borders of the New Europe
Language: English Version: 1.0 Size: 12585
Information http://forum.europa.eu.int:80/Members/irc/opoce/publish/library?l=/partnersearch/lemniscaat_en_pdf/_EN_1.0_&a=i

Europe from A to Z. Guide to European integration
Language: English Version: 1.0 Size: 5517
http://forum.europa.eu.int:80/Members/irc/opoce/publish/library?l=/partnersearch/europaaz_pdf/_EN_1.0_&a=i

News from Japan

The 62nd National Convention of Industrial Safety and Health 2003 and The Green Cross Exhibition October 29 (Wednesday) to October 31 (Friday), 2003

Will be held at Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture in Japan

Contact: International Cooperation Division, Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association (JISHA) 5-35-1 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0014 Japan | Email: kokusai@jisha.or.jp | Tel & Fax: +81-3-3454-4596

INNOVATIVE NEW COURSE IN BOLTED JOINT INTEGRITY COMBINES COMPUTER-BASED AND ON-SITE TRAINING

As an Engineering and Construction Industries Training Board (ECITB) credited training provider, Hedley Purvis recognised the need to make the PF010 and PF015 courses and its own, related training programmes far more accessible to clients with personnel based worldwide. The result was the development of an innovative computer-based product. Currently available in English and Russian the program will soon also be available in Spanish, Portuguese and Malay.

The need for a new way of training

Attending a training course can involve significant time away from work. Whilst the value of attending the course is indisputable, there is often a need for a flexible approach on the part of both employer and training provider. Since the students can be working virtually anywhere it is costly and time-consuming to send them back to a base point to undergo both the theoretical and practical training sessions.

Understanding that this difficulty existed led to the development by Hedley Purvis of its new CBT (computer-based training) program for the theory part of both the ECITB courses and its own training programmes which lead to NVQ certification.

Hedley Purvis teamed up with Atlas Interactive in Aberdeen to develop the product. Atlas specialises in providing computer-based training for the oil and gas industry. Together they have created a package which provides web or CD access to the entire theoretical part of the courses. Being able to access this computer-based option means students are away from their place of work for a minimal amount of time but still gain maximum benefit.

This helps the client companies who want to train their employees in correct, professional procedure and practice by keeping their costs down and minimises the trainee's time away from post. It also helps the students as they are able to study at a time and pace most suited to them as individuals.

The major advantage of the new program is that trainees will be able to complete the first part of the course from absolutely anywhere in the world providing they have either Internet access or the correct CD. Students can work at a desk, at home or while on the move.

How it works

All Hedley Purvis' joint integrity training courses consist of two parts, the first of which is a theory section designed to develop a good level of knowledge. With the new system a web-based final assessment has to be completed at the end of the theory section. Hedley Purvis will then assess the results and, providing the candidate has a suitable level of knowledge, he or she will progress to the practical section. This can be carried out almost immediately or at a later date to suit the needs of the trainee. The course can also be adapted to provide additional training in areas which would benefit the individual.

Following completion of both stages the students return to their normal place of work and put what they have learned into practice. For some clients this is as far as they wish to go; others require a further competence assessment to be carried out after a specified period of time.

For this later assessment the ECITB expects candidates to compile a portfolio of work successfully completed; this is then assessed in accordance with an approved process. The time taken to reach this level depends on the amount of exposure the candidate has to the activities.

The assessment has to take place some time after completion of the theory and practical courses as the trainees need time to put into practice what they have learned, and gain experience in their individual locations, in order for the judgements relating to the student's skills to be valid and fair.

Background to the development of the courses and qualifications:

Some years ago Hedley Purvis started developing bolt working training programmes for its own staff, particularly its site technicians, because the company was frustrated by the lack of a national standard or qualification for training personnel in this type of work.

During the 1990s "Bolt Working Personal Work Records" for technicians were gradually put in place; these were later incorporated into the new NVQ system.

Under the guidance of the Engineering and Marine Training Association (EMTA) Hedley Purvis became an approved NVQ assessment centre.

Why the training is needed

Until recently many companies were happy to let untrained technicians tighten bolts on platforms, or elsewhere, because it was considered a straightforward, simple job which anyone could do - one which required no technical knowledge.

No serious thought tended to be given to the potential consequences of over- or under-tightening bolts, either in terms of environmental incidents or the financial implications of correcting problems which arose later.

This attitude is now changing. Hedley Purvis provided major input into the new UKOOA guidelines aimed at preventing accidental hydrocarbon releases from bolted joints at UKCS offshore sites. These will help to set the necessary standards throughout the UKCS part of the industry. Training and competence are key elements in the guidelines.

Hedley Purvis anticipates that the release of the guidelines will result in an increase not only in companies wanting to send personnel on the PF015 course, but in more emphasis on competence development.

To this end it is increasing from three to 12 the number of its own staff who are trained to assessor standard. As the assessment part of the course is best carried out in the workplace, which is generally offshore, all the assessors will have offshore safety qualifications.

Hedley Purvis is based in Morpeth, Northumberland, in NE England.

Training contact details: bob.fogerty@hedley-purvis.com

NEW 'DEFINITIVE CATALOGUE' REVEALS EXPANDED RANGE

Hughes Safety Showers has issued a new 84-page colour catalogue covering its complete range of Emergency Showers, Eyebaths and Decontamination Equipment.

A recent review of the entire range has involved the redesign of many products and the introduction of completely new models. "It's something we do regularly to ensure that they remain the most effective and technically advanced on the market," says Managing Director, Tony Hughes.

The range includes heated and unheated Emergency Safety Showers suitable for indoor and outdoor use as well as Emergency Eyebath and Facewash Equipment.

It also includes Decontamination Showers for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Mass Decontamination Shower Systems for treating casualties in major incidents.

Hughes Safety Showers is Europe's largest manufacturer of Emergency Safety Showers, Eyebaths and Facewash Equipment, exporting to more than 125 countries.

The new 'Definitive Catalogue' features the most comprehensive range of this type of equipment currently available from any manufacturer anywhere in the world.

For a free copy of the catalogue: Tel: +44 (0)161 430 6618 | Fax +44 (0)161 430 7928

Contact Hughes through their web site www.hughes-safety-showers.co.uk

The new 84-page colour catalogue from Hughes Safety Showers.

BE A WINNER WITH ROSPA AT SAFETY & HEALTH EXPO 2003

Visitors to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents stand at Safety & Health Expo 2003 will have a chance to win a prize worth more than £6,500.

A free draw winner will be given a place on RoSPA's NEBOSH National Diploma Part 1 - full course, including five weeks accommodation sponsored by Moathouse Hotels, and the examination fee.

RoSPA is co-sponsor of the event at the NEC, Birmingham, May 19-22, and will be offering the broadest range of products and services available for organisations to ensure they manage health and safety correctly.

The Society will be based at stand U46 in Hall 12. Visitors will find information about training and consultancy, signs, posters and publications. It will be the place to tap RoSPA's experience and expertise for those who want the complete health and safety solution.

RoSPA members will be told about new products and services and how to make even better use of their membership package.

Applications for membership will be welcomed at the exhibition. Benefits include technical advice and substantial discounts on most RoSPA products and services, including health and safety training. The Society's training covers everything from practical skills courses to management and professional qualifications, including NEBOSH Diplomas.

The RoSPA Safety and Health at Work Congress - Strengthening the Team Approach - will be held alongside Expo 2003, and the Society will also be presenting around 1,000 occupational health and safety awards to businesses and organisations.

To learn more about RoSPA visit www.rospa.com

Tel: +44 0870 777 2120

News from Japan

Koichi Igarashi

JISHA now informs that Koichi Igarashi is now Director of Japan International Center for Occupational Safety and Health (JICOSH).

URL: www.jicosh.gr.jp/en

Mr. Igarashi's e-mail: kigarash@jisha.or.jp

Major OSHE Conference in London November 2003

EurOHSE2003 Conference takes place on the 4-5 November 2003 and the venue for the conference is the Royal National Hotel, Russell Square, London, UK.

EurOHSE2003 Conference looks at the major themes of the European Commission's " Adapting to change in work and society: a new Community Strategy on health and safety at work 2002-2006 " Focusing in on the European Commission's thrust and initiatives towards a healthier and safer European work place.

Eminent speakers with backgrounds in government, industry, research and education will discuss future ways of working and training, the need for risk assessment for all aspects of everyday work life, corporate killing, fire safety, managing road risks, fitness for work, researching for tomorrow's workplace, enabling the disabled in the workplace and the roles of the social partners in securing a healthier and safer workplace.

Speakers include:

To request further details contact

Mary Meadows, Angel Business Communications Ltd, 34 Warwick Road, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 1HE UK | Tel: +44 (0) 1926 512424 | Fax: +44 (0) 1926 512948 | email: info@angelbc.co.uk | See www.eurohse2003.com

Bookings have already started..... make sure you make an early bird reservation and save money.

DIARY OF EVENTS

3 - 5 June 2003 - 3rd Annual Environmental Management and Technology Conference and Exhibition
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Contact: Entech Expo-Show Manager, Tower Conference Management Co, 800 Roosevelt Rd, Building A-109, Glen Ellyn IL 60137, USA | Tel: + 1 630-469-4611 ext. 215 | Fax: 630-469-4811 | Email: john@entechexpo.com | www.entechexpo.com

19 June 2003 - Heat Stress & Strain: Workplace Surveys
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Contact: OSHTECH Inc, 279 Weber Street North, Suite 9, Waterloo ON N2J 3H8 Canada | Tel: +1 519-883-4727 | Fax: + 1 519-883-4726 | Email: kschouppe@oshtechinc.com | www.oshtechinc.com

22-25 June 2003 - 13th World Conference on Disaster Management
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Contact: World Conference on Disaster Management c/o Absolute Conferences & Events Inc., 144 Front Street West, Suite 640Toronto ON CANADA M5J 2L7 | Fax: + 1 416-979-1819 | Email: info@wcdm.org | www.wcdm.org

22-24 June - Safety 2003: Advancing the EH&S Profession
Denver, Colorado, USA
Contact: The American Society of Safety Engineers c/o Hall-Erickson Inc.98 E. Naperville Rd, Westmont IL 60559, USA | Tel: +1 630-434-7779 | Fax: 630-434-1216 | Email: safety@heiexpo.com

23-24 June 2003 - Health & Safety Training for Managers and Supervisors Course
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Contact: Irene Brelsforth, Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety (CCOHS), 250 Main Street East, Hamilton ON L8N 1H6 Canada | Tel: +1 905 572-2981 x4467 | Fax: +1 905 572-2206 | Email: ireneb@ccohs.ca | www.ccohs.ca

29 June - 29 July 2003 - 8th International Congress on Noise as a Public Health Problem
Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Contact: ICBEN 2003 Secretariat, PO Box 15586501 BN Nijmegen, The Netherlands | Tel: +31 24 3234471 | Fax: +31 24 3601159 | Email: icben2003@congres.net

29-31 October 2003 - The 62nd National Convention of Industrial Safety and Health 2003 & The Green Cross Exhibition
Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture in Japan
Contact: International Cooperation Division, JISHA, 5-35-1 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0014 Japan | Tel & Fax: +81-3-3454-4596 | Email: kokusai@jisha.or.jp