Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 February 2006
105 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if SI 203 of 1972, Factories (Woodworking Machinery) Regulations 1972, is still in force; if the statutory instrument has been superseded or amended since 1972; his views on bringing forward a new statutory instrument to reflect the technological advances that have been made in the area of woodworking machinery since 1972; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7633/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Factories (Woodworking Machinery) Regulations 1972, SI 203 of 1972, continue in force unchanged and I have no immediate plans to replace them. However, significant work has already commenced on the rationalisation of occupational health and safety legislation generally. For example, the Health and Safety Authority is currently considering submissions received on foot of the public consultation process for draft updated safety, health and welfare at work — construction — regulations and new draft safety, health and welfare — general application — regulations, which include updated proposals on the use of work equipment generally. I understand from the Health and Safety Authority that there will be requirements on employers concerning the use of all machinery in these new regulations. Such requirements will be based on the principles of hazard identification and risk assessment.
