asked the Minister for Labour if he has considered the danger that exists from static electricity generated by certain protective garments in an area contaminated by explosive or flammable materials; and if he will make regulations in this regard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Protective Garment Danger.
11.
I am aware of the situation outlined in the Deputy's question and my inspectors give advice in the matter to workers and managements. In the current programme of up-dating worker safety legislation, the question of regulations appropriate to these areas of working life is kept in mind, particularly where regulations do not already exist.
The Minister is aware that certain nylon fabrics and other man-made fibres produce a flash when subjected to certain weather conditions. Can the Minister assure me that in whatever legislation he is introducing, he will incorporate regulations to cover this situation which is a recent discovery?
There is a regulation on the point raised by the Deputy under the Cellulose Solutions Regulations, 1939 which requires that:
... no fire, flame, open light or other agency likely to ignite cellulose solutions or inflammable liquids or the vapours thereof shall be allowed within 20 feet of any cellulose cabinet, cellulose space or store room, unless effectively separated therefrom by means of intervening fire resisting materials.
As to the necessity for broadening the regulations, this matter is under consideration.
Nylon has been invented since 1939.
Cellulose is still a fabric.