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Explanatory note

Original text. Later amendments are not shown.

(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations implement Council Directive No 85/610/EEC (OJ No. L375, 31.12.1985, p1) which amends Directive No 76/769/EEC (OJ No. L262, 27.9.1976, p201) on the marketing and use of asbestos.

The Regulations prohibit the supply of the following products containing actinolite, anthrophyllite, chrysotile and tremolite asbestos mineral fibres:

  • gas catalytic heaters, catalytic panels and insulation devices;

  • toys;

  • products applied by spraying, except for specified car underseal;

  • products in powder form intended for retail supply;

  • smokers' products such as pipes and cigarette and cigar holders; and

  • paints and varnishes.

They do so by amending the Gas Catalytic Heaters (Safety) Regulations 1984 (S.I. 1984/1802) and the Asbestos Products (Safety) Regulations 1985 (S.I. 1985/2042).

In the case of LPG catalytic heaters, the Regulations extend the Gas Catalytic Heaters (Safety) Regulations to catch all asbestos in catalytic heaters, including insulation devices supplied for incorporation in those heaters (regulation 2).

In the case of intermediate brake bands containing blue asbestos, the Regulations amend the Asbestos Products (Safety) Regulations 1985 to exempt those manufactured before 1st January 1986 irrespective of the date of supply. Under the Regulations in their unamended form, such brake bands could be lawfully supplied etc. only until 30th June 1988 (regulation 4).