PRESS RELEASE
March 28, 2006
Walk the Talk:
ISOPA Embarks on Europe-wide Safety Programme
For Polyurethane Manufacturers
MAASTRICHT, the Netherlands – ISOPA is embarking on a Europe-wide initiative to promote the safe handling of chemicals used in making polyurethane products.
Most accidents in the factory happen because of behaviour rather than due to the products, equipment or procedures in use. ISOPA’s ‘’Walk the Talk’’ programme aims to achieve a significant reduction in workplace accidents by having representatives of member companies engage in active dialogue on safety behaviour with workers and managers.
‘’Safety is and remains our No. 1 priority,’’ said ISOPA President Nick Webster. ‘’We don’t just ‘talk’ safety, we act on it.’’
ISOPA represents Europe’s manufacturers of aromatic diisocyanates and polyols, the main raw materials for making polyurethanes. Despite an excellent safety track record, accidents, some involving injuries, still occur because of improper handling of these chemicals. Greater awareness, better communications and continuous training will promote safety-conscious behaviour and prepare the industry for the implications of REACH, the new EU regulatory regime for chemicals.
Polyurethanes are widely used to make thermal insulation, automotive interiors, furniture, bedding, footwear, paints and coatings. Combating accident risks is not only a matter of responsible business behaviour, it supports the competitiveness of the polyurethane industry in a climate of increasing global competition.
‘’By continuously promoting high professional standards we are helping our customers and our industry at large,’’ said ISOPA Secretary General Mike Jeffs.
Under the ‘’Walk the Talk’’ plan, technical / commercial personnel from ISOPA member companies will visit hundreds of factories and facilities throughout Europe, from Ireland to Poland and from Norway to Turkey. Based on the principles of continuous improvement, the programme entails a sustained, long-term effort.
‘’We’re calling on all users of diisocyanates and polyols to contact their suppliers and join the programme. Complacency is our worst enemy,’’ Dr. Jeffs said.
+++++
Press enquiries: Kristine Dewaele
Tel.: +32 2 676 74 75
Mobile: +32 478 982 320
Email:
Av. E. Van Nieuwenhuyse Laan 4 Tel : +32 2676 74 75
B – 1160 Brussels Fax : +32 2676 74 79