TOXICOLOGY RESOURCE AND CAPABILITY FOR SETTING WORKPLACE EXPOSURE LIMITS IN GB.

In Great Britain (GB) the key focus for controlling occupational exposure to harmful substances at work is effective risk management with the application of good exposure control and occupational health practices. Prior to the end of the Transition Period, the UK was subject to the requirements of EU legislation in this area. This included the introduction of Binding Occupational Exposure Limits (BOELVs) through implementation of amendments to the Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive, and Indicative Occupational Exposure Limit Values (IOELVs) through amendments to the Chemicals Agents Directive (CAD). Implementation of these directives in GB was achieved through the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health regulations 2002 (COSHH), by the addition or revision of Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) in HSE publication EH40/2005. WELs form part of COSHH and are set for specific hazardous substances and must not be exceeded and exposure to asthmagens, carcinogens and mutagens must be reduced to as low as is reasonably practicable (ALARP).

Following the end of the Transition Period we are no longer involved in the EU limit setting regime. However, we will continue, as now, to have a domestic GB Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) setting system in place. As part of continuing this approach, we are developing the long-term GB delivery model and our own domestic capability and capacity for setting WELs in GB. Northern Ireland are responsible for developing their own system.

The GB process for establishing WELs continues under the current robust and well-established regulatory framework. The focus remains on those substances where we think we can have most impact in terms of reducing cases of occupational ill-health in GB. As part of supporting our longer-term capability, we require experienced toxicologists to undertake the effective review and assessment of available scientific data and other relevant information.

HSE is seeking support from an expert toxicology specialist to assist with identifying the necessary skills, experience and competence required to support ongoing delivery of our GB WELs regime.

Additional information: All tender documents are available via the HSE In-Tend supplier e-procurement portal. All responses and requests for clarification must be submitted via the portal. Registration is free of charge and can be completed via the following link:

https://in-tendhost.co.uk/hse