Chemical fumes to be reduced in paints

Chemical fumes in paints and varnishes are to be restricted under new regulations arising from a European Directive.

The Volatile Organic Compounds in Paints, Varnishes and Vehicle Refinishing Products Regulations 2005, which came into force on 1 November, will set limits on paints' solvent content - but not until 2007 and 2010.

The regulations apply to paints and varnishes used by professionals such as decorators and motor-vehicle resprayers.

Unions have welcomed the new law. For years construction union UCATT has highlighted the long-term health effects of exposure to solvent-based paints, including solvent-related nervous system disorders, brain damage, cancers and breathing problems.

And UCATT and Amicus professional union have won compensation payments for workers with solvent-related health problems.

Further information about the regulations are available at www.defra.gov.uk/environment/airquality/paints-directive/