6. Hazardous substances



Key changes and developments since last year



• the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has proposed new and revised workplace exposure levels (WELs) for 31 chemical substances;


• the European Commission (EC) has proposed new limits for exposure to several cancer-causing substances;


• the general union Unite has called for a public inquiry into toxic cabin air;


• the EC has re-authorised the use of the pesticide glyphosate for a further five years;


• an HSE review of hazardous substances legislation has found that the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations requirement for thorough examination and testing of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) every 14 months does not ensure LEV plant is contributing to the control of dust or fume. It is looking into amending the COSHH regulations.