EC adopts directive to restrict creosote applications

LONDON (CNI)--The European Commission (EC) adopted a new directive on Friday strengthening restrictions on the industrial use of creosote and creosote treated wood, and banning its sale to consumers.

The sanctions, which take effect from 30 June 2003, will enforce a ten-fold restriction in benzo-a-pyrene (BaP) content, currently used as a marker in creosote. It also guarantees that creosote treated wood will not be used where there is a risk of frequent skin contact such as in garden furniture.

Creosote use in industrial applications such as railway sleepers and telegraph poles will still be permitted, with BaP restrictions.

Research presented to the EC's Scientific Committee on Toxicity, Ecotoxicity and the Environment prompted the constraints. The study revealed that carcinogenic properties in creosote were greater than previously thought and exceeded limits set by current legislation.