Union fury over HSE pitch cancer response

By John d'Arcy



Health and Safety Executive director general, Jenny Bacon, has told unions that the HSE does not consider it necessary to ban the use of pitch polymer damp-proof course products because of a cancer risk.

Bacon said: "We have found no evidence of ill-health in the construction industry connected with the use of coal tar pitch DPC, which is a cold-rolled strip product. Nevertheless, a precautionary policy requires avoidance of prolonged direct skin contact. In our opinion, very simple and practicable precautions are reasonable and sufficient."

The response has infuriated Alan Dalton, health and safety co-ordinator at the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU).

Dalton said: "The HSE has agreed that there is a health risk. But it is not prepared to ban the product, despite the fact that safe alternatives exist."

The HSE accepts "there is some small risk" of cancer arising from skin contact with coal tar pitch in DPC products. But it advises that this can be avoided by taking simple precautions such as the provision of adequate washing and sanitary facilities for site workers.

"We do not consider that there is any need on risk management grounds to withdraw these products from the market as opposed to advising use of the simple precautions stated."

Union concerns began when Anderson Roofing withdrew its pitch polymer DPC product because of its concern over the danger of skin cancer arising from exposure to coal tar pitch. At that stage, Dalton told the HSE: "The risk of skin cancer is proven and accepted. Suitable and safe substitutes are available at comparable cost. And only three manufacturers are involved.