SIM 03/2009/02
This SIM describes a planned audit of all the GB semiconductor manufacturing plants, concentrating on the management of hazardous substances.
Since the early 1980s there have been allegations of increased health risks to semiconductor manufacture employees. Research has been inconclusive. HSE carried out an inspection of semiconductor manufacturing sites in Feb - May 2002, which showed, overall, that the industry had acceptable controls for the management of hazardous substances, including carcinogens
However, a stakeholder group known as Phase Two, and more recently UNITE union, remain concerned about excess of certain types of cancer in the industry. While it is the manufacturers’ responsibility to continue to control hazardous substances, there is heightened expectation on HSE to check that good standards are maintained and fully meet legal requirements for control of hazardous substances.
Sites commercially manufacturing semiconductors.
HSE needs to exercise oversight of the semiconductor industry’s arrangements to control known hazardous substances, including carcinogens. 2009 is an appropriate time for a review, in view of the time lapse since the last coordinated audit, and the 2008 publication of COSHH Essentials guidance on Microelectronics, and HSG 258 – Controlling Airborne Contaminants at Work.
A public report will be produced summarising the outcome of the audits.
Audits of all the GB semiconductor manufacturing plants (by a team comprising FOD inspector, SG Occupational Hygienist, Sector inspector), using a centrally prepared protocol.
Inspectors should be aware of who (in terms of diversity e.g. men, women, disabled etc) is the target group in the sector they are dealing with. Give consideration to, and factor into the approach, any issues that may surround this audience such as literacy issues, English as a second language and disability. The Diversity pages give more information on these areas.
A training day for all participants is planned for 6 May 2009, at HSE Birmingham office.
Further background information, visit schedules, question sets and other guidance will be available on TRIM (‘Audit of semiconductor manufacturing plants 2009’).
Julian Nettleton, HSE Manufacturing Sector, email: Julian.nettleton@hse.gsi.gov.uk
or
Peter Woolgar, HSE Manufacturing Sector, email: peter.woolgar@hse.gsi.gov.uk
