Vol. 544 No. 3
88 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action she proposes to take to minimise the dangers to workers from exposure to asbestos fibres or materials containing asbestos fibres in the workplace; and the initiatives she plans in this regard. [28625/01]
The potential dangers posed to persons from exposure to asbestos fibres are well recognised and it is essential that workers are protected against the risk of such a situation arising at their place of work.
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 1989, and the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations, 1993, impose duties on employers and employees to ensure that the health and safety of workers who may be affected by a work activity are protected. In addition, the removal of asbestos or materials containing asbestos comes within the scope of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations, 2001.
Furthermore, comprehensive European Union-derived legislation exists for the protection of workers under the European Communities (Protection of Workers) (Exposure to Asbestos) Regulations, 1989, as amended in 1993 and 2000. The regulations apply to all work which exposes persons to risks arising from the inhalation of asbestos fibres. The regulations are designed to provide protection to those workers involved in activities which may lead to possible exposure to asbestos fibres. Examples of such activities include removal of asbestos-containing materials, demolition and construction work or maintenance.
These regulations are enforced by the Health and Safety Authority, which is an independent body under the auspices of my Department. To enhance compliance with existing legislation the authority is committed to increasing further asbestos-related inspections during 2002.
Ireland is involved at a European level in the development of a new asbestos (worker protection) directive. The proposed directive will provide for specific requirements to ensure the protection of high-risk workers against asbestos fibres exposure. In addition, this directive will reduce further the existing exposure limits so as to enhance the protection of workers. Ireland strongly supports and welcomes this proposal which will further assist in the protection of those workers most at risk from exposure to asbestos fibres while performing their work activities.
