HSE publishes guidance on controlling fume during plastics processing"

HSE Press Release E187:02 - 2 October 2002

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has today published guidance providing advice on how to control fume during plastics processing.

The information sheet - Controlling fume during plastics processing (Plastics Processing Sheet No.13) - was launched at the HSE Stand during INTERPLAS 2002 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham.

Fume produced in plastics processing is often the subject of enquiries to HSE and others in the industry. As a result, the HSE, in consultation with the Plastics Processors Health and Safety Liaison Committee, has produced this guidance, the latest in a series of information sheets addressing health and safety issues in plastics processing.

Chris Flint, HSE's Plastics and Rubber Sector Group, commented at the launch:

"This information sheet provides practical advice for companies on how to check that their processes are being operated in such a way that fume formation is minimised so reducing the risk of exposing employees to harmful levels of plastic fume. It emphasises the importance of maintaining plant correctly and following recommended processing parameters."

He continued:

"In some cases, either because of the process or the material being processed, local exhaust ventilation will be required to control exposure, and advice is included on where this is likely. This information sheet is essential reading for anyone involved in the plastics processing industry."

Notes to editors

1. Representatives of HSE's Plastics and Rubber Sector Group will be attending the HSE Stand 3190 in Hall 3 during INTERPLAS 2002. The exhibition at the NEC runs from 30 September to 4 October 2002.

2. The Plastics Processors Health and Safety Liaison Committee comprises HSE and employers and employee representatives from the plastics processing industry.

Copies of Controlling fume during plastics processing (Plastics Processing Sheet No. 13) are available online: http://books.hse.gov.uk

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