Where is control banding already in use?
An international example of control banding concepts in use is the procedure for the transportation of dangerous chemicals. These chemicals are classified with United Nations (UN) codes that are used for identifying safe storage rules, permitted types of transport container, and actions to take in an emergency. Another example of control banding is the implementation of controls and work practices for safe handling of new drugs and materials in the pharmaceutical industry. In Europe, a combination of the hazard and the amount of chemical stored are banded, leading to a range of duties to prepare formal safety assessments. In the United Kingdom, the HSE has developed a scheme for banding the control of health risks associated with chemicals. This scheme, or control banding tool, is called COSHH Essentials. Other European countries are exploring similar schemes and ideas.
