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<p>The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is aware of the guidelines that have been
produced in Germany and Austria, advising companies on the measures they should take
to protect workers against risks of breathing in historic man-made mineral fibres
(MMMFs).</p><p>In Great Britain there is a statutory framework in place to protect
workers who may be exposed to any hazardous substance, such as MMMFs, regardless of
how that exposure occurs. This framework includes the Health and Safety at Work etc.
Act 1974 which places a general duty on employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably
practicable, the health, safety and welfare of people affected by their work activities.</p><p>
</p><p>The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), places
specific duties on employers and implements several EU Directives on worker protection,
ensuring our standards meet those required of all EU Member States. COSHH requires
employers to carry out a risk assessment to establish the hazards associated with
the tasks and processes they are undertaking and put in place suitable arrangements
to either prevent or control those risks. Such a risk assessment would need to be
carried out for workers renovating or demolishing buildings to enable suitable controls
to be put in place for any hazardous substances that may be present or that may be
produced, including MMMFs. HSE provides guidance, to help businesses comply with their
legal duties.</p><p> </p><p>The regulatory framework, supported by guidance, is sufficient
to control occupational exposure to MMMFs.</p>
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