Abstract

GARCIA GOMEZ, Montserrat et al. Occupational health administrative coordination a propos of a case: brake linings with asbestos in a company. Rev. Esp. Salud Publica [online]. 2018, vol.92, e201804004.  Epub Apr 10, 2018. ISSN 2173-9110.

The current structure of the Spanish State of Autonomies is characterized by institutional pluralism and the autonomy of the different public administra tions. In this context, the principle of coordination is fundamental for the co hesion of the system, but experience shows that its implementation is difficult. This paper examines the set of actions carried out by the administrations in re lation to an occupational and public health problem raised in March 2016. The Public Health General Direction of Aragon’s Government was informed of a possible use of brake linings with asbestos to manufacture axles for agricultu ral machinery by a Company from Zaragoza; the collaboration from Aragon’s Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, the Industry Department and the Labour and Social Security Inspectorate were asked; the joint action of the se administrations detected the use of several models of brake linings with a content of 2-5% of Chrysotile. The brake linings came from a Chinese com pany. The axles nated are sold in several Spanish Autonomous Communities. A national alert was activated by the SIRIPQ (System of Rapid Exchange of Information on Chemical Products) which is coordinated by the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality. Several measures were taken including: ceasing the work with the brake linings, the replacement of brake linings with asbestos, the immobilization of brake linings in the company by application of the REACH Reglament, etc. This case shows that the cooperation and co-responsibility of public administrations from different territorial, sectoral and competence areas allows improving the occupational risks prevention and the public health.

Keywords : Asbestos; Intersectoral collaboration; Chemical agents; REACH.

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