§ The Countess of Marasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware of the studies conducted by Lloyd in 1976 and 1979 which demonstrated that PVA and PVC are not totally impervious, that they may offer protection against liquid chemicals for short periods only and that decreased work performance and thermoregulatory failure could result from the undertaking of physical activities when protective clothing made from these products is worn; and, if they were so aware, why they have continued to recommend clothing made from PVA or PVC for use when dipping sheep.
Lord LucasThe Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has long been aware of the limitations of protective clothing and has published guidance on the relative performance of different materials against various types of chemicals.
The Government's free guidance booklet on sheep dipping makes clear that use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is only one of a number of measures to prevent or control exposure to sheep dip. The guidance recommends the PVC or nitrile rubber (but not PVA) PPE. Together with the other measures, this gives adequate protection. The guidance also sets out how to use PPE properly, and includes several measures which will minimise stress to both sheep and dippers. It also points to the need to avoid dipping sheep in hot weather.