General duties

• Pages: 7-10

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3. General duties

3.1. Manufacturers

3.1.1. Manufacturers should promote an ongoing process of product

improvement, and the establishment of databases containing validated measurements of

exposure levels in different working situations where the materials that they

manufacture are used.

3.1.2. Manufacturers should support product development which addresses issues

of potential health concern, such as the risk of a release of respirable fibres and dust

particles, the biopersistence properties, and the chemical additives.

3.1.3. Manufacturers should ensure that the products can be transported, stored,

used and disposed of with the minimal release of fibres and dust. Where practicable,

manufacturers should supply pre-cut, ready-to-install products.

3.1.4. Material safety data sheets and labels, as well as other product information

on health and safety in the use of insulation wools, conforming to the requirements of

the competent authority, should be prepared by manufacturers and made available to

suppliers and users. The production of material safety data sheets in electronic format

should be encouraged.

3.1.5. Manufacturers should initiate and maintain a process for regular

consultations with the affected parties concerning health, safety and working

environment issues relating to product development, and as regards the extent and

effectiveness of the application of the guidance and instructions given for the use of

their products.

3.2. Suppliers and importers

3.2.1. As the link between manufacturers and users, suppliers and importers

should ensure that the information and instructions of the manufacturers are transmitted

to their customers. Any repackaging by the supplier should meet the requirements set

out for manufacturers on packaging, storage, transport, labelling, material safety data

sheets and product information.

3.3. Building clients, designers and specifiers

3.3.1. Building clients, designers and specifiers should consider the potential for

fibre and dust generation during installation, use, maintenance and removal whenever

designing, selecting or specifying the use of insulation materials.