§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment to whom a leaflet published by the Health and Safety Commission, warning of the health hazards of reactive dyes, is being circulated; what are the main precautions the leaflet advises workers and employers to adopt; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NichollsThe leaflet "Your Health and Reactive Dyes" published by the Health and Safety Commission on 1 February 1990, is being distributed widely in the finishing sector of the textile industry and is also being sent to the Society of Dyers and Colourists and to further education establishments specialising in textile technology. The leaflet is specifically intended to inform workers. The main precautions which the leaflet advises are: to open, dispense and weigh out dye powders at a dust control booth; to clean up any spillages by vacuum or wet method; to wear a suitable respirator and protective clothing when instructed to do so; to pay attention to personal hygiene and to seek medical advice if specified symptoms occur.