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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Nov 2002

Vol. 557 No. 4

Written Answers. - Health and Safety Regulations.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

144 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will introduce health and safety regulations for theatres and other areas where performing arts events are held to protect performers, audiences and cleaning staff from infection caused by the presence of bodily fluids on stage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22601/02]

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. Performance artists and other related workers, such as the cleaning staff mentioned, are afforded the protection of this legislation. The statutory remit of the Health and Safety Authority encompasses occupational health and safety only and does not include public safety. Accordingly, I see no requirement for specific regulations concerning health and safety in theatres and other areas where performing arts events are held.

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