asked the Minister for Labour if he is aware of the increasing level of skin infections and dermatitis amongst the industrial workforce; and if, in view of the failure of some employers to disclose the nature of the chemical components of raw materials, he will introduce legislation obliging employers to disclose such information to workers or their representatives.
Written Answers. - Industrial Workforce Skin Infection.
653.
I am aware and concerned that work-related skin diseases outnumber all other work incurred illness and that occupational dermatitis is the single most common work-related disease in this country. A recently published explanatory booklet entitled Dermatitis can be Prevented, which was prepared with the assistance of my Department, is available from the National Industrial Safety Organisation.
As regards legislation in regard to chemical components of raw materials, there is a body of legislation administered by my Department already in existence which lays down standards in accordance with EC requirements for the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous chemicals.
The Commission of Inquiry on Safety, Health and Welfare at Work in their report recommended that employers should be made responsible for ensuring that adequate information, training, instruction and supervision is given to all staff, workers and management. My Department are, as a matter of priority, formulating proposals for legislation arising from the commission's recommendations.