1. A Trade Union Approach to REACH A Cautious Welcome
Elizabeth Donnelly
9 October 2007

2. Elizabeth Donnelly
Chair, East Midlands Unite (Amicus) Regional Council
Trades Unionist since 1993 in a variety of industries from publishing to pharmaceuticals
Currently External Engagement Advisor to Unite (Amicus) representatives at Rolls-Royce

3. Overview
Our primary concern is for the health and safety of people at work
We are keen to see that REACH implementation does not lead to job losses, or to manufacturers moving operations outside the EU

4. Health Benefits of REACH
A positive occupational impact and public health impact is expected;
A reduction in respiratory and bladder cancers, mesothelioma, skin disorders, respiratory diseases, eye disorders and asthma;
A 10% reduction in disease as a result of implementing REACH = 4,500 fewer cancer deaths a year = €50bn over 30 years* across the European Union.
*European Commission estimates

5. Environmental Benefits of REACH
Reduced pollution of air, water and soil;
Reduced pressure on biodiversity;
Reduction in effects from endocrine disrupting chemicals.

6. Workplace Benefits of REACH
More information on chemical safety in workplace;
Particular information on combining chemicals and use for specific purposes
Obligations on suppliers to give information on potential hazards to all users down the supply chain
Obligations on users to declare if the use is not listed in the chemical Safety Data Sheet

7. Workplace Benefits of REACH
Better control or substitution of dangerous chemicals.
Greater involvement of union safety representatives
Expertise and communication with workforce

8. Concerns Companies may move their businesses out of the EU
Loss of UK/EU jobs
Reduced regulation outside the EU exports chemical risks to the developing world
Costs of implementation must be proportionate to company size and profitability

9. Concerns
Companies may continue to use hazardous chemicals even if safer ones are available
Inconsistent with UK legislation for the protection of workers
Particular concern over reporting of substances below 10 tonnes a year

10. Concerns
REACH must not be allowed to undermine existing protection or water down current regulations
Confidentiality agreements must not limit health and safety information for chemical users in the workplace.

11. The Way Forward REACH does not replace COSHH and CHIP
New UN GHS regulations complement REACH
Opportunity to sit as one simple package
REACH should be incorporated into UK law as soon as possible

12. The Way Forward Involve and consult with the unions in the workplace
Hidden “expertise” of trained safety representatives

13. Thank you for listening
Questions?