Free chemical internet advice to protect workers

Citation

(2002), "Free chemical internet advice to protect workers", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 31 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/prt.2002.12931aab.019

Free chemical internet advice to protect workers

Free chemical internet advice to protect workers

Keywords: Health and Safety, Internet, Chemicals

A £1,50,000 contract for a free innovative Internet based system, has been announced by the UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The system is tailored to provide help for the millions of small firms using chemicals. It will provide simple guidance on the steps needed to protect workers' health from the range of chemicals used in the workplace.

This will be based on the recent “COSHH Essentials” which was launched in May 1999 and is currently available as a paper version. COSHH Essentials, which gives practical advice in easy to understand terms, has been well received by industry, trade unions and the occupational hygiene profession. The free electronic version will make the guidance readily available and be easier and quicker for users.

The system is being developed in conjunction with Butterworths Tolley who are HSE's partners in hsedirect, the authoritative Internet database of HSE's legislation and guidance. The electronic version of COSHH Essentials, which will be made available as part of the free access site of hsedirect,will be launched in April 2002.

Sandra Caldwell, director of HSE's Health Directorate commented: “This free interact product will make a real difference to small firms who use chemicals in the workplace. It contributes to our commitments under the Revitalising Health and Safety Strategy Statement by taking a tool into the workplace for employers, safety representatives and individual employees. By giving clear and straightforward advice, the tool will contribute to our aim to improve workers' health and safety.”

The website address for hsedirect is www.hsedirect.com

Details available from: HSE's InfoLine, Tel: +44 (0) 8701 545500.