Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1990, published 77th ILC session (1990)

Benzene Convention, 1971 (No. 136) - Zambia (Ratification: 1973)

1. In earlier comments, the Committee noted the Government's indication in its 1985 report that a general survey of working places where benzene is used was to provide the information necessary for the full application of the Convention. The Committee notes from the Government's latest report that the general survey, which was started with the assistance of the Lusaka Urban District Council could not be completed due to a lack of qualified personnel, transport and relevant measuring equipment. The Government, however, considers that a thorough survey of working premises where benzene is used is still necessary for effective enforcement of the Factories (Benzene) Regulations and the application of the requirements of the Convention. The Committee hopes that the appropriate priority will be given to this project and that the Government will soon be in a position to indicate that the survey has been completed.

2. For a number of years, the Committee has noted the absence of measures to give effect to important requirements of the Convention. The Committee hopes that the necessary steps will be taken in the near future so as to ensure the application of Article 4 (prohibition of the use of benzene as a solvent or diluent unless the process is carried out in an enclosed system), Article 6, paragraph 3 (directions on carrying out the measurement of benzene in the air), Article 7, paragraph 1 (work processes involving the use of benzene to be carried out in an enclosed system), and Article 8, paragraph 2 (personal protective equipment against the risk of inhaling benzene vapour for workers exposed to excessive concentrations of benzene). The Committee hopes that the Government will soon be able to indicate progress made in this regard. [The Government is asked to report in detail for the period ending 30 June 1990.]