Benzene Convention, 1971 (No. 136) - Guinea (Ratification: 1977)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes the additional information supplied by the Government concerning the effect given to Article 4(2) of the Convention, namely that enterprises using benzene, which are considered high-risk enterprises, are inspected at least once a month.

Legislation. Referring to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain any information on the formulation of technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, which had been planned by the Government and referred to in its report of 9 May 2000 with a view to supplementing Order No. 2265/MT/1982 of 9 April 1982 concerning protection against the risks of benzene poisoning. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether or not Order No. 2265/MT/1982 is still in force and if it has been supplemented. It urges the Government to take all the necessary steps to formulate and adopt the technical guidelines enabling full effect to be given to the Convention, and to provide information on all progress made in this respect.

Article 6(2) and (3). Concentration of benzene vapour in the air of places of employment. Measurement of the concentration of benzene. Referring to its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that it will consider the threshold limit value of 0.5 parts per million (ppm) over an average eight-hour period, as recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), when drawing up a draft order concerning data sheets on the safety of chemical substances, which it mentioned in its report of 9 May 2000 on the application of the Convention. The Committee urges the Government to take all the necessary steps to draw up and adopt the order concerning data sheets on the safety of chemical substances and encourages it to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH, as planned. The Committee once again requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority relating to the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in the air of places of employment.

Article 8(2). Limiting as far as possible the duration of exposure of workers to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established. Referring to its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the study on limiting the duration of exposure of workers to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established has not yet been completed. The Committee requests the Government to take all the necessary steps to complete the abovementioned study and to provide information on the results achieved. It also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to limit as far as possible the duration of exposure of workers to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, in accordance with Article 6(2) of the Convention.

Application in practice. The Committee requests the Government to provide a general appreciation of the manner in which the Convention is applied and to send extracts of inspection reports and information on the number of workers exposed to benzene or to products containing benzene, the number and nature of infringements reported, etc.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

The Committee takes note of the adoption of the new Labour Code (Act No. L/2014/072/CNT of 10 January 2014). The Committee requests the Government to provide all implementing texts of the Code in view of a complete review of the new legislation.

The Committee further notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous comments.

The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

Article 4(2) of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

Article 6(2) and (3). With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m3 over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

Article 8(2). With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation, which read as follows:

Repetition

The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

Article 4(2) of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

Article 6(2) and (3). With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m3 over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

Article 8(2). With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2012, published 102nd ILC session (2013)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received for the seventh consecutive time. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

Repetition

The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

Article 4(2) of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

Article 6(2) and (3). With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m3 over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

Article 8(2). With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

Repetition

The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

Article 4(2) of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

Article 6(2) and (3). With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m3 over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

Article 8(2). With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

Article 4(2) of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

Article 6(2) and (3). With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m3 over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

Article 8(2). With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

Article 6, paragraphs 2 and 3. With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m3 over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

Article 8, paragraph 2. With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2008, published 98th ILC session (2009)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters previously raised in a direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

Article 6, paragraphs 2 and 3. With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m³ over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

Article 8, paragraph 2. With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

 

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2007, published 97th ILC session (2008)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

2. Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

3. Article 6, paragraphs 2 and 3. With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m³ over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

4. Article 8, paragraph 2. With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

5. The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

6. In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be provided for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

2. Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

3. Article 6, paragraphs 2 and 3. With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m³ over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

4. Article 8, paragraph 2. With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

5. The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

6. In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the information sent by the Government in reply to its previous comments. It notes the information provided by the Government relating to Articles 5; 6, paragraph 1; 7, paragraph 2; 8, paragraphs 1 and 2; and 13, of the Convention.

The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the following points, on which it would appreciate additional information.

1. The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

2. Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

3. Article 6, paragraphs 2 and 3. With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m³ over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

4. Article 8, paragraph 2. With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

5. The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

6. In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2003, published 92nd ILC session (2004)

The Committee notes the information sent by the Government in reply to its previous comments. It notes with interest the information provided by the Government relating to Articles 5; 6, paragraph 1; 7, paragraph 2; 8, paragraphs 1 and 2; and 13 of the Convention.

The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the following points, on which it would appreciate additional information.

1. The Committee notes that the Government does not presently intend to amend Order No. 2265/MT of 9 April 1982, but envisages formulating, in consultation with the social partners, technical guidelines on harmful, hazardous and carcinogenic products, particularly benzene. The Committee also notes that the guidelines envisaged will be made available to all users. It hopes that the guidelines will be formulated and adopted without delay and requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this matter.

2. Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest the Government’s information on processes which use methods of work that are as safe as those carried out in an enclosed system. It notes in particular that the increase in labour and health inspections in enterprises and the involvement of Workers’ Committees for Health, Safety and Working Conditions (CHSCT) ensure that the processes are carried out under the safest possible conditions. The Committee requests the Government to provide an indication of the frequency of the inspections carried out in enterprises that use benzene. It also requests the Government to provide copies of the statistics collected during inspections, to enable the Committee to assess the extent to which this provision of the Convention is applied in practice.

3. Article 6, paragraphs 2 and 3. With regard to the concentration of benzene vapour in the air of workplaces, the Committee notes that a draft Order concerning data files on the safety of chemical substances establishes a level not exceeding 10 ppm or 32 mg/m³ over an eight-hour time-weighted average. The Committee accordingly concludes that the ceiling established in the draft Order is lower than the one established in the Convention when it was adopted in 1971. It nevertheless wishes to point out to the Government that the threshold limit value recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is 0.5 ppm over an eight-hour time-weighted average. It therefore invites the Government to take measures to bring the ceiling value established by the draft Order into line with the value recommended by the ACGIH. The Committee also requests the Government to specify the guidelines issued by the competent authority on the procedure for determining the concentration of benzene in places of employment. It also requests the Government to provide a copy of the abovementioned Order as soon as it is adopted.

4. Article 8, paragraph 2. With regard to limiting the duration of exposure of workers who, for special reasons, may be exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air of places of employment which exceed the maximum established, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, a study is under way on this matter. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

5. The Committee also requests the Government to provide relevant extracts of the inspection reports and the statistics available on the number of employees covered by the legislation as well as the number and nature of violations reported, as requested under Part IV of the report form.

6. In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s statement that a draft Order on occupational cancer giving full effect to the provisions of the Convention had been formulated with ILO technical assistance. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether this Order is still under consideration for enactment.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1999, published 88th ILC session (2000)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the information provided in the Government's latest report. The Government has indicated that the draft decree concerning occupational cancer elaborated with the assistance of the ILO gives full effect to the provisions of the Convention enumerated in the Committee's previous comments. The Committee takes due note of this indication. It hopes that accordingly, the necessary provisions will soon be adopted for the protection of workers against hazards arising from benzene which were not clearly provided for in Order No. 2265 of 9 April 1982. In particular, while the Order tends to set forth general principles concerning the use of benzene, further measures are required to ensure the practical application of these principles; in so far as these measures are not specified in the draft decree concerning occupational cancer, the Government is requested to indicate whether it envisages amending the Order or supplementing it with administrative circulars or technical directives in order to ensure the application of the following provisions:

Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee had noted that section 3 of Order No. 2265 concerning the protection of workers against hazards arising from benzene provided that the use of benzene as a solvent or diluent was prohibited, except where the process is carried out in an enclosed system or where there are other equally safe methods of work. The Government is requested to indicate the work processes which are considered to be as safe as using an enclosed system and to indicate the manner in which it is ensured that, whenever benzene is used as a solvent or diluent, the process is carried out in an enclosed system or where there are other equally safe methods of work.

Article 5. The Committee had noted that section 4 of the Order provided that occupational hygiene and technical measures shall be taken to ensure effective protection of workers exposed to benzene. The Government is requested to indicate the types of measures referred to in this Order and to indicate the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in workplaces involving exposure to benzene.

Article 6, paragraph 1. The Committee had noted that section 5(1) of the Order provided that measures must be taken to prevent the escape of benzene vapour into the air of places of employment. The Government is requested to indicate the kinds of measures which must be taken in this regard and the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in the workplace.

Article 6, paragraph 3. The Government is requested to indicate the measures taken or envisaged by the competent authority to issue directions concerning the measurement of the concentration of benzene in the air of places of employment.

Article 7, paragraph 2. The Committee had noted that section 6(2) of the Order provided for the removal of benzene vapour. The Government is requested to indicate the types of measures envisaged for the removal of benzene vapour and the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in the workplace.

Article 8, paragraphs 1 and 2. The Committee had noted that, under section 7(1) and (2) of the Order, workers shall be provided with personal protection against benzene. The Government is requested to specify the means of personal protection with which workers exposed to benzene must be equipped and the manner in which it is ensured that such personal protective equipment is provided to workers.

Article 13. The Government is requested to indicate the steps taken to ensure that workers exposed to benzene are provided with appropriate instructions on measures to safeguard health and prevent accidents, as well as on the appropriate action if there is any evidence of poisoning.

2. The Committee had noted in its previous comments that no measures existed to give effect to the following provisions of the Convention: Article 6, paragraph 2 (a maximum permissible concentration of benzene in the air of 25 parts per million); Article 8, paragraph 2 (the limitation of duration of exposure for workers who are, for special reasons, exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air exceeding the established maximum). The Government is requested to indicate the measures taken to ensure the application of these provisions and to transmit copies of any draft texts being considered in this regard.

3. The Government is requested to provide any pertinent extracts from inspection reports and any statistics available on the number of employed persons covered by the relevant legislation and other measures, and the number and nature of contraventions reported, as requested under point IV of the report form.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1998, published 87th ILC session (1999)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the information provided in the Government's latest report. The Government has indicated that the draft decree concerning occupational cancer elaborated with the assistance of the ILO gives full effect to the provisions of the Convention enumerated in the Committee's previous comments. The Committee takes due note of this indication. It hopes that accordingly, the necessary provisions will soon be adopted for the protection of workers against hazards arising from benzene which were not clearly provided for in Order No. 2265 of 9 April 1982. In particular, while the Order tends to set forth general principles concerning the use of benzene, further measures are required to ensure the practical application of these principles; in so far as these measures are not specified in the draft decree concerning occupational cancer, the Government is requested to indicate whether it envisages amending the Order or supplementing it with administrative circulars or technical directives in order to ensure the application of the following provisions:

Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee had noted that section 3 of Order No. 2265 concerning the protection of workers against hazards arising from benzene provided that the use of benzene as a solvent or diluent was prohibited, except where the process is carried out in an enclosed system or where there are other equally safe methods of work. The Government is requested to indicate the work processes which are considered to be as safe as using an enclosed system and to indicate the manner in which it is ensured that, whenever benzene is used as a solvent or diluent, the process is carried out in an enclosed system or where there are other equally safe methods of work.

Article 5. The Committee had noted that section 4 of the Order provided that occupational hygiene and technical measures shall be taken to ensure effective protection of workers exposed to benzene. The Government is requested to indicate the types of measures referred to in this Order and to indicate the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in workplaces involving exposure to benzene.

Article 6, paragraph 1. The Committee had noted that section 5(1) of the Order provided that measures must be taken to prevent the escape of benzene vapour into the air of places of employment. The Government is requested to indicate the kinds of measures which must be taken in this regard and the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in the workplace.

Article 6, paragraph 3. The Government is requested to indicate the measures taken or envisaged by the competent authority to issue directions concerning the measurement of the concentration of benzene in the air of places of employment.

Article 7, paragraph 2. The Committee had noted that section 6(2) of the Order provided for the removal of benzene vapour. The Government is requested to indicate the types of measures envisaged for the removal of benzene vapour and the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in the workplace.

Article 8, paragraphs 1 and 2. The Committee had noted that, under section 7(1) and (2) of the Order, workers shall be provided with personal protection against benzene. The Government is requested to specify the means of personal protection with which workers exposed to benzene must be equipped and the manner in which it is ensured that such personal protective equipment is provided to workers.

Article 13. The Government is requested to indicate the steps taken to ensure that workers exposed to benzene are provided with appropriate instructions on measures to safeguard health and prevent accidents, as well as on the appropriate action if there is any evidence of poisoning.

2. The Committee had noted in its previous comments that no measures existed to give effect to the following provisions of the Convention: Article 6, paragraph 2 (a maximum permissible concentration of benzene in the air of 25 parts per million); Article 8, paragraph 2 (the limitation of duration of exposure for workers who are, for special reasons, exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air exceeding the established maximum). The Government is requested to indicate the measures taken to ensure the application of these provisions and to transmit copies of any draft texts being considered in this regard.

3. The Government is requested to provide any pertinent extracts from inspection reports and any statistics available on the number of employed persons covered by the relevant legislation and other measures, and the number and nature of contraventions reported, as requested under point IV of the report form.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1992, published 79th ILC session (1992)

1. The Committee notes the information provided in the Government's latest report. The Government has indicated that the draft decree concerning occupational cancer elaborated with the assistance of the ILO gives full effect to the provisions of the Convention enumerated in the Committee's previous comments. The Committee takes due note of this indication. It hopes that accordingly, the necessary provisions will soon be adopted for the protection of workers against hazards arising from benzene which were not clearly provided for in Order No. 2265 of 9 April 1982. In particular, while the Order tends to set forth general principles concerning the use of benzene, further measures are required to ensure the practical application of these principles; in so far as these measures are not specified in the draft decree concerning occupational cancer, the Government is requested to indicate whether it envisages amending the Order or supplementing it with administrative circulars or technical directives in order to ensure the application of the following provisions:

Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Committee had noted that section 3 of Order No. 2265 concerning the protection of workers against hazards arising from benzene provided that the use of benzene as a solvent or diluent was prohibited, except where the process is carried out in an enclosed system or where there are other equally safe methods of work. The Government is requested to indicate the work processes which are considered to be as safe as using an enclosed system and to indicate the manner in which it is ensured that, whenever benzene is used as a solvent or diluent, the process is carried out in an enclosed system or where there are other equally safe methods of work.

Article 5. The Committee had noted that section 4 of the Order provided that occupational hygiene and technical measures shall be taken to ensure effective protection of workers exposed to benzene. The Government is requested to indicate the types of measures referred to in this Order and to indicate the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in workplaces involving exposure to benzene.

Article 6, paragraph 1. The Committee had noted that section 5(1) of the Order provided that measures must be taken to prevent the escape of benzene vapour into the air of places of employment. The Government is requested to indicate the kinds of measures which must be taken in this regard and the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in the workplace.

Article 6, paragraph 3. The Government is requested to indicate the measures taken or envisaged by the competent authority to issue directions concerning the measurement of the concentration of benzene in the air of places of employment.

Article 7, paragraph 2. The Committee had noted that section 6(2) of the Order provided for the removal of benzene vapour. The Government is requested to indicate the types of measures envisaged for the removal of benzene vapour and the manner in which it is ensured that such measures are taken in the workplace.

Article 8, paragraphs 1 and 2. The Committee had noted that, under section 7(1) and (2) of the Order, workers shall be provided with personal protection against benzene. The Government is requested to specify the means of personal protection with which workers exposed to benzene must be equipped and the manner in which it is ensured that such personal protective equipment is provided to workers.

Article 13. The Government is requested to indicate the steps taken to ensure that workers exposed to benzene are provided with appropriate instructions on measures to safeguard health and prevent accidents, as well as on the appropriate action if there is any evidence of poisoning.

2. The Committee had noted in its previous comments that no measures existed to give effect to the following provisions of the Convention: Article 6, paragraph 2 (a maximum permissible concentration of benzene in the air of 25 parts per million); Article 8, paragraph 2 (the limitation of duration of exposure for workers who are, for special reasons, exposed to concentrations of benzene in the air exceeding the established maximum). The Government is requested to indicate the measures taken to ensure the application of these provisions and to transmit copies of any draft texts being considered in this regard.

3. The Government is requested to provide any pertinent extracts from inspection reports and any statistics available on the number of employed persons covered by the relevant legislation and other measures, and the number and nature of contraventions reported, as requested under point IV of the report form.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1989, published 76th ILC session (1989)

1. The Committee notes that the new Labour Code (Ordinance No. 03/PRG/SGG/88 of 28 January 1988) contains general provisions respecting safety and health and provides for the adoption of implementing orders which, according to the Government, will give full effect to the provisions of the Convention.

2. In its previous direct requests, the Committee pointed out that Order No. 2265 of 9 April 1982, concerning protection against hazards of poisoning arising from benzene, needed to be supplemented on a number of points in order to give full effect to all the provisions of the Convention. These points were as follows:

Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention. The Order does not specify which work processes involving the same safety conditions as work carried out in an enclosed system must be used for the prohibition laid down in section 3 of the Order on the use of benzene and of products containing benzene as a solvent or diluent not to apply.

Article 5. The Order does not specify the occupational hygiene and technical measures which should be taken under section 4 of the Order.

Article 6, paragraph 1. The Order does not specify the measures which must be taken to prevent the escape of benzene vapour into the air of places of employment under the terms of section 5(1) of the Order.

Article 6, paragraph 2. The Order does not establish the maximum concentration of benzene permitted in the air in places of employment.

Article 6, paragraph 3. The Order does not establish the way in which the concentration of benzene in the air is to be determined.

Article 7, paragraph 2. The Order does not specify the effective means with which places of employment must be equipped, under the terms of section 6(2), to ensure the removal of benzene vapour.

Article 8, paragraphs 1 and 2. The Order does not specify the means of personal protection with which workers must be equipped, under the terms of section 7(1) and (2). Nor does it provide that the duration of exposure must be limited as far as possible in the case set out in Article 8, paragraph 2, of the Convention.

Article 13. The Order does not contain provisions concerning the instructions to be given to workers who have been exposed regarding measures to safeguard health and prevent accidents, and in the event of there being any evidence of poisoning.

3. The Committee hopes that, when preparing the texts to apply the Code, which are to give full effect to the Convention, the Government (possibly with the assistance of the appropriate technical departments in the ILO) will be able to amend Order No. 2265 or to supplement it with administrative circulars or technical directives in order to take into account the above comments. In so doing, the Government could base itself on the provisions of the Benzene Recommendation, 1971 (No. 144).