Eric J. Byrne
Question:30 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Labour if he will outline the steps his Department are taking to mark the European Year of Safety, Hygiene and Health at Work in 1992; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Safety, Hygiene and Health at Work.
The Commission of the European Community has designated the period March 1992 to March 1993 as the European Year of Safety, Hygiene and Health Protection at Work. The main objectives of the year are to raise awareness among workers and employers about hazards in the workplace and the appropriate ways of combating them. The National Authority for Occupational Safety and Health, who are responsible for the administration and enforcement of health and safety at work under the aegis of my Department, are co-ordinating events for the year here.
The authority have established a national liaison committee who are representative of a broad range of interests, including the social partners, to co-ordinate the activities for the year. This committee have decided to highlight specific topics throughout the year including farming and forestry, chemical safety, construction and manual handling of loads. The activities for the year will be launched in conjunction with a two day seminar on occupational safety and health in Dublin Castle next March.