IOM in launch of new collaboration on indoor air quality

Scientists at the IOM and the University of Aberdeen recently launched the Scottish Centre for Indoor Air. This collaboration will study the effects of indoor air pollution on human health, and in so doing, will build on the joint work already undertaken by these groups, particularly in the areas of environmental tobacco smoke, and the burning of biomass fuels.

To learn more about the work of the new Centre, go here

European Chemicals Agency consultation on new list of hazardous chemicals

EChA has initiated a consultation on 15 chemicals, identified by member states as candidates for classification as ‘substances of very high concern' (SVHC's). Interested parties have until 15 October to submit comments.

For further details about this consultation, and the list of proposed SVHC's, go here

To find out how the IOM can help organisations comply with the REACH regulations, go here.

New initiative from the Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives

The SCHWL, supported by a wide range of organisations within the health and safety community, recently launched a new campaign: ‘Health risks at work – do you know yours?', aimed principally at small and medium sized enterprises (SME's). The IOM has been involved in the development of tools that will be used in support of this campaign, and is pleased to be associated with this initiative.

For more information, go here

Contaminated land

The redevelopment of brownfield sites raises issues of soil and groundwater contamination, with the possible presence of toxic chemicals, asbestos, and biohazards. As well as assessing how such contaminants might impact upon the health of future users of the redeveloped site, it is also essential to consider the health of workers involved in the site redevelopment.

To find out how the IOM can help you to implement safe and healthy working practices on contaminated sites, go here

Training course for DSE assessors

Given the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders amongst the working age population, it is essential that display screen equipment (DSE) workstations are assessed by a competent person for compliance with the DSE regulations, and for possible risks to health through poor workstation layout or poor posture. The IOM is offering a one day training course in DSE assessment, following which delegates will be competent to carry out workstation assessments in their own organisations.

For more information, go here

Calling the IOM's Edinburgh head office

The IOM has discontinued its non-geographic (0870) telephone numbers at the Edinburgh head office. The main switchboard number has reverted to 0131 449 8000 and the main fax number is now
0131 449 8084.