asked the Minister for Health if he has received reports as to the possible danger to health arising from the handling of broken fluorescent electric light tubes, and, if so, whether he will state whether any decision has been come to in the matter of special precautions being taken.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fluorescent Light Tubes.
I have not received any reports to the effect that handling of these tubes constitutes a danger to health.
I understand that formerly the lining of these tubes contained among other substances a salt which might have undesirable consequences, e.g. dermatitis, if allowed to penetrate the skin. I am informed, however, that for some time past a substitute for this salt, namely, halo-phosphate, has been in use and I am advised that recent supplies of these tubes may be regarded as unobjectionable from the health point of view.
In the circumstances I do not consider that any action by me is called for.
May I take it that the earlier types of tubes did, in fact, constitute a possible danger of skin disease and that that may not be known to the members of the public generally?
There is a possibility that the substance zinc—beryllium— silicate, where the tube broke and the substance penetrated the skin, could have caused dermatitis in certain people sensitive to this salt, and could have been a danger.
Is the Minister aware that when these old tubes are taken down it frequently happens that young members of the staff are asked to break them up and that, in such cases, danger might arise?