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Textile Fumigation Regulations in the UK

Chemicals used in the fumigation of textiles pose a danger to humans who come into contact with them. Some of the insecticides commonly used for the purpose of fumigation include methyl bromide, phosphine and ethyl oxide. The chemicals in fumigants that poison pests can also compromise the health of people exposed to them. The degree of danger will depend on several factors, particularly the length of time of the exposure and the concentration of the chemicals.

  1. The Regulations

    • The rules concerning fumigation are contained in Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (1999) (COSHH). These regulations apply to a variety of workplaces and to a broad range of substances that might present a danger to humans. The first requirement is that the employer should make a sufficient and suitable assessment of the risks. If possible, the employee should not be exposed to the substance. However, if this is not possible, take all safety measures.

    Personal Protective Equipment

    • The employee will be required to wear appropriate protective clothing. This must be provided by the employer and must be in good repair. Any defects should be reported by the employee, and the employer should ensure they are rectified. The employee must wear the protective clothing properly. If textiles are being fumigated by gas, this will take place in a sealed area. The exposure must be for a long enough time for the gas to penetrate the textiles.

    Ventilation Equipment

    • If you use ventilation equipment, always follow the correct procedures. Check equipment at intervals set down in your organization's own procedures. This check must be carried out by an approved body and a log completed. This log must be retained by the organization for at least five years. Treatment involving gas should take place under gas-proof sheets or in special chambers. Exposure of employees should be kept to a minimum.

    Medical Checks

    • A doctor appointed by the organization may monitor the health of employees exposed to fumigants, sometimes for several years. General health, particularly lung function must be monitored. Immediate problems experienced by people exposed to fumigants include irritation to the eyes and nose. Some employees may suffer more serious problems, including cancers and impaired lung function. Lawyers may refer to these records in cases of later legal proceedings or compensation claims.

    Avoidance of Exposure

    • Researchers have recently paid much more attention to the health hazards posed by fumigants. Scientists are endeavoring to develop an alternative to these chemicals; experimentation indicates that fumigation with nontoxic gases, namely carbon dioxide or nitrogen, can be effective. However, up to now, this process has proved expensive and slow. Evidence that some of the existing fumigation gases may also damage the ozone layer has proved a further impetus to develop alternatives.

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