asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the regulations, if any, that are being operated for the control of the material polyurethane in the manufacture of furniture and other products.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Polyurethane Control.
70.
There are no regulations in operation at present for the control of the use of polyurethane in the manufacture of furniture and other products. I think it is true to say that up to recently polyurethane was not considered a dangerous substance for use in furniture. However, following the recent tragedy and in the light of research findings abroad which have just become available, I am considering as a matter of urgency what steps could be taken to minimise such special hazards as it does present.
Can the Minister state what steps he is considering?
First, there are different sorts of polyurethane. The safer polyurethane from the fire point of view is also a less useful product in other ways, as for its use in furniture. It is possible to prohibit polyurethane entirely, to prohibit certain grades and to permit others. It is possible to carry out campaigns of information, for the manufacturers in regard to its use and for the public in regard to its hazards. These are possible courses. We have received from British researchers who have been looking thoroughly into this matter for a number of years one extensive report, and another extensive report on the hazards and the steps to be taken is expected in the near future. It is from a very reputable body whose findings are to be taken very seriously. I should prefer to await those details, which I expect in the near future, before committing myself to a particular course of action.
For the information of the public could the Minister define polyurethane?
Not perhaps very exactly. First, it is a plastic. Secondly, the main constituents are a carbon chain with some hydrogen atoms. It is a polymerised form of a very simple carbon and hydrogen chain and it is made fundamentally by the mixing of two other organic compounds, in the case of the constituent two liquids polyol and di-isocyanate.
I am sure the public will understand that.
I do my best.
I am calling Question No. 71.