In 2008, the Department of Labour commenced consultation on proposed changes to some toxic substances that have been assigned Workplace Exposure Standards.  Softwood dust is one of the substances proposed for reduction.

The proposed change to the softwood dust WES is:

• An eight hour WES-TWA (time weighted average) of 1mg/m3
• A WES-GEL (general excursion limit) of 3mg/m3

Consultation with industry, unions, and other people potentially affected by the proposed change to the softwood dust WES has resulted in requests for the Department of Labour to provide details of the reasons behind the proposed changes.  In response to these requests, the Department has produced a Consideration Paper giving evidence in support of the proposed changes to the WES.

Feedback requested

Your feedback on this proposed change is requested.  If you would like to have your views taken into consideration, please complete the attached response form [rtf 6.5MB]

Where to send feedback

Email: Philippa.gibson@dol.govt.nz.

Post:
Consultation on Softwood Dust WES
Department of Labour
PO Box 3705
WELLINGTON 6011  

Deadline for feedback

Written feedback must be received by 5pm on Thursday, 30 September 2010.

Official Information Act

The Department of Labour is subject to the Official Information Act 1982, which means that your submission may be made available to those seeking information under that Act.