nt for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to implement the Solvent Emissions Directive (1999/13/EC). This directive specifies that solvent emissions from certain processes should be controlled to a very low figure for most solvents, and lower emission limits will be imposed on solvents that are classified as Category 1 or 2 carcinogens, mutagens and reproductive toxicants. The Directive is likely to come into full operation by 2007 and will be enforced by the Environment Agency, or the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) in Scotland. PUBLIC ENQUIRIES:Call HSE's InfoLine, tel: 08701-545500 or write to: HSE Information Services, Caerphilly Park, Caerphilly CF83 3GG. Published on the HSE web site on 18 June 2001 Back to Press Release Index PageAs many of you will be aware, the classification of trichloroethylene (trike) is in the process of being changed to a class 2 carcinogen (see article). HSE is aware that this is likely to cause difficulties with substitution, particularly where toxicological information about alternatives may be limited. HSE is currently looking at one suggested alternative, n-propyl bromide. It is expected that this will be considered by WATCH at its meeting on 17 September 2001. We will report the outcome in future TSB editionsCategory 1 - substances known to be carcinogenic to humans. There is sufficient evidence to establish a causal association between human exposure to the substance and the development of cancer.Category 2 - substances that should be regarded as if they are carcinogenic to humans, for which there is sufficient evidence, based on long-term animal studies and other relevant information, to provide a strong presumption that human exposure may result in the development of cancer. Category 3 - substances that cause concern owing to possible carcinogenic effects but for which available information is not adequate to make satisfactory assessments.Categories 1 and 2, if purchased from ...
