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

White Lead (Painting) Convention, 1921 (No. 13) - Lao People's Democratic Republic (Ratification: 1964)

The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in its report. It notes the Government's indication that industrial development in Lao is still at a low level and the use of white lead, sulphate of lead and all products containing this pigment has not appeared in the country, so that the Government has not yet enacted an ordinance on the use of white lead in accordance with the Convention. The Government adds that what is used in painting in the country is usually in the form of paste, or paint ready for use, or spray which is imported from abroad. Finally, the Government indicates that it tries to follow the use of white lead in the country and, if it appears, legislation will be enacted.

The Committee takes due note of this undertaking. It trusts the Government is aware that paste, paint ready for use or spray may contain white lead or sulphate of lead, and requests the Government to indicate any measures taken to ensure that no paste, paint ready for use or spray is imported which contains substances whose use should be prohibited under Article 1 of the Convention in the internal painting of buildings (except where considered necessary for industrial establishments after tripartite consultation, or if the lead content is below 2 per cent).

The Committee moreover hopes that, when the adoption or amendment of broader legislation on safety and health is next considered, the use of white lead will also be regulated in conformity with the Convention, and that the Government will also supply information on all measures taken or contemplated to this end.