91997E3915

WRITTEN QUESTION E-3915/97 by Ria Oomen-Ruijten (PPE) to the Commission (11 December 1997)

Subject: Psycho-organic syndrome

In the painting and decorating and carpet sectors in particular and also in car repair businesses and the printing sector harmful solvents are still being used. Use of these solvents can lead to POS (psycho-organic syndrome), an illness which can cause memory loss and chronic fatigue.

1. To what extent is the European Commission aware of the problem of psycho-organic syndrome?

2. Does it consider that the use of harmful solvents must be stopped and that the companies which still use these substances must be required to replace the harmful solvents with non-harmful alternatives?

3. Does it agree that for both environmental and health reasons a European approach to this problem is needed?

4. What does the Commission intend to do and what are the possibilities for taking action against POS at European level?

5. Is it willing to undertake research into the development and consequences of psycho-organic syndrome and to assist the victims of this illness?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission (30 January 1998)

1. The Commission is aware of the use of the term 'organic-psycho-syndrome' (OPS) in certain Member States. OPS is not specifically mentioned in the European schedule of occupational diseases which is annexed to the Commission Recommendation 90/326/EEC concerning the adoption of the above mentioned European schedule ((OJ L 160, 26.6.1990. )). However, Annex I to this Recommendation contains diseases caused by several solvents, such as the homologues of benzene.

2. The Commission believes that in principle every substance should be treated individually and a decision made whether replacement or controlled use with proper information on safety and health is the procedure to be followed.

The new proposal for a Council directive on chemicals ((OJ C 375, 10.12.1997. )) currently undergoing second reading in the Parliament requires that substitution shall be undertaken to avoid the use of a hazardous chemical agent by replacing it with a chemical agent or process less hazardous to workers' safety and health where this is technically possible.

In addition the Honourable Member will be aware of the considerable body of legislation on classification packaging and labelling of dangerous preparations placed on the market which provides information to users on safety and health.

3. This approach is already Commission policy, in relation to all chemicals placed on the market.

4. and 5. The Commission is keeping under review the European schedule of occupational diseases. In 1998 it envisages a study of the data deriving from scientific and technical progress, and based on epidemiological analysis. As part of this review new occupational diseases could be considered.

As far as the question of assistance to victims is concerned this remains the responsibility of Member States.