asked the Minister for Labour if he is aware of the consequences of the use of a product (details supplied) currently in general use in car spraying establishments; and if he will consider introducing regulations prohibiting the use of this product.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Car Spraying Product.
19.
I have had inquiries made regarding this product and its use in car spraying establishments. The legislation protecting the workers is adequate and the product if used in accordance with proper procedures can be used safely. I have not found any reason to prohibit the use of this product.
Is the Minister aware that there is considerable disquiet among people working in spraying operations in garages throughout the country because of the lack of care in using this product? While I agree that the regulations are fine, are they being implemented and what is the Minister doing about seeing that they are implemented?
As I said in my reply, the product, while it may not be safe if not used properly in accordance with the instructions, is safe to use in a well-ventilated premises and if the operators wear suitable protective equipment. Any reasonable person, obviously, would carry out those protective necessities, which are usually printed on the tins or boxes in which the product is delivered.
It is interesting to hear the Minister say that he accepts that this spray paint is not safe unless used in certain circumstances. Would he not agree that it is his responsibility, as the Minister who introduces the regulations governing the use of such products, to ensure that his inspectors are absolutely certain that the premises using the product are carrying out the instructions and the regulations of the Department? If they are not doing so, what will he do about it?
If the Deputy is aware of premises which are not carrying out the regulations, he should let me know. It would be unwise to imply a general ignoring of rules and regulations in this regard.
A final supplementary.
Has the Minister any inspectors in his Department doing routine examination of premises involved in the use of this spray paint? Yes or no.
These premises were inspected by an inspector from my Department and there are adequate inspectors in the Department.
That is not what I mean, with all due respect to the Minister. Does the Minister have inspectors on a regular basis calling on premises throughout the country, to inspect the equipment and the place where such spraying is taking place?
Yes, of course.
The Minister must be joking.
Question No. 20.