§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Minister for the Civil Service whether assessments under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations have been undertaken for all workplaces used by civil servants within the civil service.
§ Mr. Luce[holding answer 18 April 1990]: The civil service is a multi-departmental organisation and in common with other major employers assessments under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations are the responsibility of individual Departments. There is no requirement to record these assessments centrally and it is not possible to confirm that all assessments have been carried out.
In the period leading to enactment of the regulations representatives of many Departments attended training and information courses within the civil service and externally.
1039WIn October 1988 representatives of the civil service occupational health service (CSOHS) discussed the requirements of the regulations with departmental establishment officers. The CSOHS issued a detailed briefing note in January 1989 to assist Departments in meeting their statutory obligations. CSOHS health advisers and hygienists have provided information and advice on the regulations during routine visits and on request.
Departments which require professional support on assessments can obtain those on request from CSOHS who continue to provide advice, guidance and specialist input as required.