White Lead (Painting) Convention, 1921 (No. 13) - Guatemala (Ratification: 1990)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2024, published 113rd ILC session (2025)

In order to provide a comprehensive view of the issues relating to the application of ratified occupational safety and health (OSH) Conventions, the Committee considers it appropriate to examine the application of Conventions Nos 13 (white lead, paint), 127 (maximum weight), 148 (air pollution, noise and vibration), 161 (occupational health services) and 167 (safety and health in construction) together in a single comment.

Legislative developments. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its various reports on the amendments made in 2016 and 2022 to the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations (OSH Regulations), adopted by Government Decision No. 229-2014, and the adoption of the new Regulations on the establishment, organization and operation of joint OSH committees, approved by Ministerial Decision No. 486-2023 (the joint OSH committees Regulations). Taking into account the wording of the above amendments (Government Decisions Nos 33-2016 and 57-2022) and the information provided by the Government in its report on the Occupational Health Services Convention, 1985 (No. 161), the Committee observes that: (i) the OSH Regulations were revised with a view to updating their provisions and aligning them with the current situation in the country; (ii) the 2016 reforms were adopted at the initiative of the Government, employers and workers, who came together for that purpose in a dialogue forum; and (iii) the 2022 reforms, relating among other matters to occupational health services, were included through tripartite social dialogue in the National Occupational Safety and Health Council (CONASSO). The Committee also notes that, in accordance with the new wording of sections 1, 2 and 13, the OSH Regulations are applicable to workers who are present in a workplace, irrespective of whether they are for public or private entities, in which they perform industrial, agricultural, commercial of any other kind of work. The Committee notes that the restrictions have been removed from sections 1 and 13 which placed conditions on the application of the OSH Regulations in the public sector and excluded certain workplaces from their scope.

General provisions

Occupational Health Services Convention, 1985 (No. 161)

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in reply to its previous comment concerning the technical assistance provided by the ILO (follow-up activities to the Declaration of Intent signed in 2014 with the National Congress).

Articles 2 and 4 of the Convention. Coherent national policy on occupational health services in consultation with the most representative employers’ and workers’ organizations. Measures to give effect to the Convention. With reference to its previous comment, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that, through tripartite social dialogue in the CONASSO, health services at the workplace have been included in the OSH Regulations through the 2022 legislative amendments. The Committee notes that, in its report on the White Lead (Painting) Convention, 1921 (No. 13), the Government adds that these reforms seek to strengthen preventive health services in the workplace, and the prevention of work-related risks, through the constant updating of the plan for the prevention of occupational risks and the establishment of joint OSH committees in public and private enterprises. The Committee also notes that section 301 of the OSH Regulations, as amended, provide that occupational health services have a preventive purpose (and as such supplement curative or reactive medical services) and are intended to maintain the working environment safe and healthy. The Committee takes due note of the information provided by the Government and requests it to refer to the comments made on Articles 5, 7, 8 and 9 of the Convention on the functions, organization and operating conditions of occupational health services, the general principles of which make up the national policy on occupational health services.

Articles 3 and 7. Progressive development of occupational health services for all workers. Organization of occupational health services. In relation to its previous comment on Article 3 of the Convention, the Committee refers to its comments above on the extension of the scope of application of the OSH Regulations following their amendment in 2016 and 2022. Similarly, with reference to its previous comment on Article 7 of the Convention, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that, under the terms of new section 302 of the OSH Regulations, all employers are required to install a monitor responsible for managing the prevention of occupational risks in workplaces, who represents the employer and is a member of joint OSH committees (which exist in workplaces with ten or more workers). On this basis, and the information on the functions of occupational health services, which is noted below, the Committee observes that these services appear to be organized jointly by employers, the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance (MTPS) and the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS).

The Committee also notes that new section 303 of the OSH Regulations provides that health services established at workplaces shall operate in relation to two levels of care, the second of which can only be provided by physicians with competence in OSH, and specifies that in workplaces where a physician is present, the latter may provide the two levels of care. In this respect, the Committee observes that this provision of the Regulations does not provide for the possibility that certain workplaces (under certain conditions) may come together in groups or communities with a physician for the group. Moreover, the Committee notes that the requirement has been removed from section 302 of the OSH Regulations, as amended, for the presence of a physician during working hours in workplaces with over 100 workers. Having noted these legislative amendments, the Committee requests the Government to: (i) indicate whether the functions of occupational health services are organized solely as services for a single enterprise or whether they can be organized as of joint services for several enterprises; and (ii) provide information on the manner in which the two levels of care provided by health services, referred to in section 303 of the OSH Regulations, are implemented and operate in practice in workplaces, specifying how many of them have the services of a physician and the arrangements and conditions under which the physician provides services.

Article 5. Functions that are adequate and appropriate to the occupational risks of the enterprise. The Committee notes that, with reference to its previous comment, the Government indicates that the MTPS and the IGSS are the bodies responsible for the functions of the health services set out in Article 5 of the Convention. With reference to clauses (c), (e) and (h) of this Article of the Convention, the Committee notes that, in accordance with the OSH Regulations, the MTPE and the IGSS are required to: (i) provide advice and make appropriate recommendations to prevent or reduce risks affecting workers in workplaces or positions (section 12(a); and (ii) provide technical assistance on OSH to public and private establishments; inform and instruct employers and workers on measures for the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases; and prepare reports and recommendations on compliance with OHS legislation in workplaces (section 12(e) to (g)). The Committee also notes that, according to the information provided by the Government, the IGSS is required to provide to workers, in the event of accidents, protection which includes rehabilitation benefits and when a worker undergoing rehabilitation is authorized to return to work, the employer is required to restore the worker to the former work position or assign the worker to an occupation compatible with the residual capacity for work (sections 15, 19 and 20 of Decision No. 1002, Regulations on accident protection).

With reference to clauses (a) and (i) of Article 5 of the Convention, the Committee notes that new section 302 of the OSH Regulations provides that employers shall have a plan for the prevention of occupational risks (if they have fewer than ten workers) or an OSH plan (in the case of employers with ten or more workers). Section 302 also provides that the section of the OSH plan that addresses occupational health shall be drawn up and signed by a competent physician, who may also draw up and sign the part addressing occupational safety if the physician fulfils the requirements set out in the legislation (if not, the second part must be under the responsibility of a person who is competent). In this regard, the Committee notes that OSH plans have to include as a minimum a profile of the job and the associated risks, an epidemiological surveillance system for occupational diseases and the occurrence of employment accidents, and the programming and methodology for information, training and the promotion of measures to prevent occupational accidents and diseases, taking as a reference the risk factors described in the job profile, as well as for reassignment to work, without prejudicing labour rights. In the light of the above, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted or envisaged to ensure that occupational health services established in workplaces (without prejudice to the responsibility of each employer) have the following functions: (i) surveillance of the factors in the working environment and working practices which may affect workers’ health, including sanitary installations, canteens and housing where these facilities are provided by the employer (Article 5(b)); (ii) participation in the development of programmes for the improvement of working practices, as well as testing and evaluation of health aspects of new equipment (Article 5(d)); (iii) surveillance of workers’ health in relation to work (Article 5(f)); (v) promoting the adaptation of work to the worker (Article 5(g)); (vi) organizing of first aid and emergency treatment (Article 5(j)); and (vii) participation in analysis of occupational accidents and occupational diseases (Article 5(k)).

Articles 9 and 10. Conditions of operation of health services. The Committee notes that the OSH Regulations provide that the MTPS and the IGSS, in coordination, shall act in harmony with the action taken by other competent departments and directorates for the prevention of occupational risks, maintain relations with national and international bodies on OSH matters; and issue reports and opinions at the request of other authorities or bodies in relation to the prevention of occupational risks (sections 11(c) and (d) and 12(b)).

The Committee also notes that, in accordance with the OSH Regulations: (i) the OSH monitor proposed for each employer shall be responsible for the follow up and implementation of the plan for the prevention of occupational risks or the OSH plan (depending on the number of workers), have competence in the subject, be trained by an accredited institution and have a profile determined with regard to the economic activity of the workplace and the risks of the jobs (section 302); (ii) the second level of health services in workplaces can only be provided by physicians who are competent in OSH (section 303); and (iii) the part of the OSH plan (for employers with ten or more workers) on occupational health has to be drawn up and signed by a physician who is competent in the subject, who must also have duly accredited technical and academic knowledge, membership of an active professional association and be registered with the OSH department of the MTPS; the physician may also draw up and sign the part of the plan on occupational safety if she or he has the competence and the authorization of the department, or if not the second part must be the responsibility of a person who is competent in the subject, whose knowledge must be accredited and who must be registered with the above department (section 302). The Committee requests the Government to indicate the manner in which it is guaranteed that the personnel of occupational health services, including the OSH monitor and physician, fulfil their functions in cooperation with the other services in the enterprise and enjoy full professional independence.

Application in practice. The Committee notes that, in reply to its previous comment, the Government indicates that, under the terms of Ministerial Decision No. 191-2010, employers are required to register and notify the OSH department of the MTPS of employment accidents and occupational diseases that occur at the workplace. The Government reiterates that that it still does not have an (updated) official national list of occupational diseases and that the CONASSO is responsible for the development of a project in this regard. The Government adds that the General Labour Inspectorate (IGT) registers employment accidents on the basis of its normal monitoring and the complaints received and that the IGT cannot consider a disease to be occupational as the official national list has not been adopted. The Government also indicates that the IGT did not receive denunciations of employment accidents prior to 2022 or of occupational diseases between 2017 and 2023. The Government also emphasizes that 205 OSH plans were registered in 2022 alone. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the specific measures adopted for the establishment of an updated list of occupational diseases. The Committee also requests the Government to refer to the comments that it is making in its direct request on the application of Article 14 of the Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81), and Article 19(1) of the Labour Inspection (Agriculture) Convention, 1969 (No. 129) (notification to the labour inspection services of industrial accidents and cases of occupational disease).

Protection against specific risks

White Lead (Painting) Convention, 1921 (No. 13)

Articles 1, 2 and 5 of the Convention. Prohibition of the use of white lead, sulphate of lead and all products containing these pigments. Regulation of its use in work where it is not prohibited. The Committee notes that, according to the information provided by the Government in reply to its previous comment, the CONASSO, a tripartite body, indicates that the OSH Regulations set out the basic principles contained in the Convention and that their provisions on hazardous substances and products (including sections 201 to 209) are applicable to white lead. The Committee also notes that, according to the Government, at its meeting on 14 June 2023, the CONASSO decided by consensus to review, study and analyse the subject of white lead and decided to include it on its agenda for the purpose of avoiding any risk of accidents or diseases caused by its handling, transport or storage. In the light of the above, the Committee requests the Government to indicate any progress achieved in the context of the discussions held in the CONASSO on the use of white lead, sulphate of lead and any other products containing these pigments. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the activities in which, in the painting industry at the national level, white lead, sulphate of lead and any other products containing these pigments are still used.

Article 7. Compilation of statistics on lead poisoning. Application in practice. With reference to its previous comment, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the OSH department of the MTPS does not have a record of cases that have been registered, declared or are presumed to be lead poisoning and that the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance dealt with two cases of patients (one of them a minor) diagnosed with lead poisoning in 2015 and 2023. The Committee requests the Government to continue providing information on registered or declared cases of lead poisoning, including fatalities, to the MTPS (through the OSH department and/or the IGT) and the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance and to indicate whether the cases concern working painters and whether, in general, they are occupational in origin. The Committee also requests it to provide information on the follow-up measures adopted by the competent authorities in relation to the cases of lead poisoning identified.

Maximum Weight Convention, 1967 (No. 127)

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in reply to its previous comment on Article 5 (measures to ensure that workers receive adequate training in working techniques) of the Convention.

Articles 3, 4, 6 and 7 of the Convention. Maximum weight of loads transported by an adult worker. Young workers. Conditions in which the work is to be performed and use of suitable technical devices. With reference to its previous comment, the Committee notes with interest that, as amended, section 90 of the OSH Regulations raises to 18 years the minimum age for the manual transport of loads. The Committee also notes that this section reduces the maximum weight of loads for adults, sets limits to the weight of manual loads transported during the working day and in relation to the distances covered, and sets out the manner in which workers shall handle the loads.

Working Environment (Air Pollution, Noise and Vibration) Convention, 1977 (No. 148)

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in reply to its previous comment on Articles 3 (definitions) and 10 (prohibition on requiring workers to work without personal protective equipment) of the Convention.

Article 6(2) of the Convention. Responsibilities whenever two or more employers undertake activities simultaneously at one workplace.The Committee requests the Government to refer to its comments below on the application of Article 8 (and particularly paragraph 1(a) and (c)) of the Safety and Health in Construction Convention, 1988 (No. 167) (coordination whenever two or more employers or self-employed workers undertake activities simultaneously at one site).

Article 8. Revision and specification of exposure limits. Consultation of technically competent persons. The Committee notes that, according to the Government’s indications, the CONASSO has agreed to submit to social dialogue the review of the subjects raised by the Committee in its comments on the application of this Article of the Convention, including the absence of exposure limits to vibration. The Committee requests the Government to indicate any progress achieved in this regard in the discussions in the CONASSO and invites it to draw the attention of this tripartite body to all the provisions of this Article of the Convention.

Exposure limits to noise. The Committee also notes that, following their amendment in 2016, sections 182, 187, 188 and 189 of the OSH Regulations set new exposure limits to noise, prohibiting exposure in workplaces to peak sound levels equal to or higher than 140 decibels (dB) with a C-weighting and establishing a limit of 85 dB with an A-weighting for a work shift of eight hours. In the latter case, if the decibels rise, the time limit for exposure is reduced and the exposure of workers without protective hearing equipment is prohibited.

Article 11. Medical examinations free of charge prior to employment. Alternative employment or other measures adopted to maintain income. Maintenance of the rights of workers under social security or social insurance legislation. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government refers to sections 303 and 302 of the OSH Regulations which, as amended, provide respectively that: (i) health services in workplaces shall provide two levels of care, the second of which may only be provided by physicians and includes medical examinations prior to employment and the medical surveillance of workers, and the management of their reassignment (in accordance with their capacities) on the basis of a medical assessment following an accident or the diagnosis of a disease without affecting their labour rights; and (ii) OSH plans (which must be adopted by employers with ten or more workers) have to include as a minimum the programming and methodology for reassignment without prejudice to labour rights. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that, under the terms of Decision No. 1529 of the Executive Board of the IGSS, approved by Government Decision No. 9-2023, all employers are required to register their workers with the social security system and they are therefore covered by the benefits provided by the IGSS. The Committee takes due note of this information and requests the Government to indicate the measures adopted or envisaged to ensure that: (i) the surveillance of the health of workers does not involve any costs for them (Article 11(2) of the Convention); and (ii) where continued assignment to work involving exposure to air pollution, noise or vibration is found to be medically inadvisable, measures shall be adopted to provide the worker concerned with suitable alternative employment or to maintain their income through social security measures or otherwise, including in cases in which such exposure does not have its origins in an accident or has not yet led to emergence of a disease, as indicated in section 303 of the OSH Regulations (Article 11(3) of the Convention). The Committee also requests the Government to refer to the comments that it is making above on the application of Article 7 of the Occupational Health Services Convention, 1985 (No. 161) on organization of occupational health services.

Article 12. Requirement of notification. In view of the Government’s indication that this subject will also be reviewed by the CONASSO, the Committee requests it to indicate any progress achieved in this respect. The Committee also invites the Government to draw the attention of this tripartite body to this Article of the Convention, which provides that the use of processes, substances, machinery and equipment, to be specified by the competent authority, which involve exposure of workers to occupational hazards in the working environment due to air pollution, noise or vibration, shall be notified to the competent authority which may, as appropriate, authorize the use on prescribed conditions or prohibit it.

Article 15. Requirement for the employer to appoint a competent person or to use a competent outside service. The Committee notes that, in reply to its previous comments, the Government refers to the requirement for all employers to have a responsible OSH monitor (trained by an accredited institution), as set out in section 302 of the OSH Regulations, as it noted in its comments on Convention No. 161 on occupational health services. The Committee further notes that this provision also provides that OSH plans (for employers with ten or more workers) must be drawn up and signed by a physician or by other competent persons who are duly accredited. The Committee notes this information which addresses its previous request.

Protection in specific branches of activity

Safety and Health in Construction Convention, 1988 (No. 167)

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in reply to its previous comment on the relevant legislative developments and on Article 4 (laws and regulations adopted on the basis of an assessment of the safety and health hazards) and Article 9 (safety and health of workers in the design and planning of a construction project) of the Convention.

Article 8 of the Convention. Cooperation whenever two or more employers or self-employed workers undertake activities simultaneously at one contraction site. With reference to its previous comments, and particularly in relation to Article 8(1)(c) of the Convention, the Committee notes that section 4 of the OSH Regulations, as amended, provides that all employers, or their representative, intermediary, supplier, contractor or subcontractor, and third party enterprises, are required to adopt or apply OSH measures at workplaces to protect the life, health and safety of their workers.

The Committee notes, also in relation to its previous comments that the Government refers to the provisions of the OSH Regulations respecting OSH plans in construction works, and provisions of the Regulations on joint OSH committees in relation to the types of committees, joint solidarity between the enterprise that receives the services and intermediary, contracting or subcontracting enterprises and the possibility for those responsible for the OSH plans in the latter enterprises to be invited to join the existing OSH committee in the enterprise where the services are being provided. The Committee however notes that these provisions do not give effect to the requirements of Article 8(1)(a) and (b) and (2) of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether measures exist or it is planned to adopt measures, including legislative measures, to ensure that whenever two or more employers undertake activities simultaneously at one construction site: (i) the principal contractor, or other person or body with actual control over or primary responsibility for overall construction site activities, shall be responsible for coordinating the prescribed safety and health measures (Article 8(1)(a) of the Convention); and (ii) where the principal contractor, or other contractors, are not present at the site, a competent person or body at the site shall be nominated with the authority and the means necessary to ensure on behalf of the principal contractor, coordination and compliance with the prescribed safety and health measures (Article 8(1)(b) of the Convention). The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the manner in which effect is given to Article 8(2) of the Convention, with an indication of whether laws or regulations have been adopted which prescribe that whenever employers of self-employed persons undertake activities simultaneously at one construction site they shall have the duty to cooperate in the application of the prescribed safety and health measures.

Article 12(2). Obligation of the employer to stop the operation and evacuate workers. The Committee notes that, in reply to its previous comment, the Government refers to the powers conferred by section 281(4) of the Labour Code on labour inspectors to order the stoppage or the immediate prohibition of work or operations due to failure to comply with the rules on the prevention of occupational risks, in the event of a serious or imminent risk to the safety and health of workers. The Committee recalls that this Article of the Convention does not refer to the powers of the Government authorities, but to the obligations of the employer in the event of an imminent risk to the safety of workers. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted or envisaged, in law or practice, to ensure that where there is an imminent risk to the safety of workers, the employer shall take immediate steps to stop the operation and evacuate workers as appropriate.

Article 20. Cofferdams and caissons. With reference to its previous comment, the Committee notes that the Government only refers to the provisions of the OSH Regulations respecting the storage and handling of pressurized cylinders and that it provides information on OSH inspection activities carried out by the IGT and the OSH department of the MTPS in construction sites between 2015 and May 2023. The Committee, therefore, requests the Government to indicate whether measures have been adopted or are envisaged, in accordance with Article 20 of the Convention, to ensure that: (i) cofferdams and caissons are of good construction and suitable and sound material and of adequate strength, and are provided with adequate measures for workers to reach safety in the event of an inrush of water or material; (ii) the construction, positioning, modification or dismantling of a cofferdam or caisson takes place only under the immediate supervision of a competent person; and (iii) every cofferdam and caisson shall be inspected by a competent person at prescribed intervals.

Article 21. Work in compressed air. With reference to its previous comment, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted or envisaged to ensure that work in compressed air is carried out only: (i) in accordance with measures prescribed by national laws or regulations; and (ii) by workers whose physical aptitude for such work has been established by a medical examination and when a competent person is present to supervise the conduct of the operations.

Article 22. Structural frames and formwork. With reference to its previous comment, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted or envisaged to ensure that: (i) the erection of structural frames and components, formwork, falsework and shoring is carried out only under the supervision of a competent person; (ii) adequate precautions have to be taken to guard against danger to workers arising from any temporary state of weakness or instability of a structure; and (iii) formwork, falsework and shoring are so designed, constructed and maintained that it will safely support all loads that may be imposed on it.

Articles 24(b) and 27(b). Demolition, explosives and competent persons. The Committee notes that, in reply to its previous comment, the Government indicates that it has not yet adopted legislation that is in force on demolition and explosives respecting the definition of the “competent person” referred to in Article 2(f) of the Convention. The Government adds that the CONASSO, at its meeting on 14 June 2023, decided by consensus to review, study and analyse this subject and include it in its work agenda. The Committee requests the Government to keep it informed of any progress made in the discussions held in the CONASSO on the inclusion in the legislation on demolition work and explosives (sections 153 to 156 of the OSH Regulations) of the intervention of a competent person in the specific activities and under the conditions set out in these Articles of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its report in reply to its previous comments relating to Articles 3(1) and 5(III)(a) of the Convention.

Article 2(2) (in conjunction with Article 5). Regulation of the use of white lead, sulphate of lead and all products containing these pigments, in various types of work. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes the adoption of Government Decision No. 229-2014, containing the new Regulation on occupational safety and health. The Committee notes in particular that sections 201–209 of the Regulations on hazardous substances are identical to sections 201–209 of the General Regulations on occupational safety and health provided in 2010, except that they no longer make explicit reference to lead as a substance that is harmful to health. The Committee also notes that the above Government Decision does not include the specific provisions required by Article 5. Under these conditions, the Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to give full effect to this provision of the Convention.

Article 7. Compilation of statistics on lead poisoning among working painters with respect to morbidity. The Committee notes that, according to the information provided by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, there were no recorded cases of lead poisoning between 2011 and May 2015. The Committee requests the Government to continue providing information on reported or presumed cases of lead poisoning, either through the Department of Occupational Safety and Health of the General Directorate of Social Welfare or the General Labour Inspectorate.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

Article 2 of the Convention. Regulation of the use of white lead, sulphate of lead, and all products containing these pigments, in various types of work. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the information supplied by the Government on the application of this provision in practice. The Committee requests the Government to continue to supply such information and urges it to adopt legislative and/or regulatory measures to give effect to this provision of the Convention and to supply information in this regard.

Article 3(1). Measures to ensure that persons under 18 years of age and women of any age are not employed in any painting work of an industrial character involving the use of white lead or sulphate of lead or other products containing these pigments. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that regulations for the application of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182), and immediate action for the elimination of such forms of labour, to which the prohibition laid down by the Convention with respect to minors applies, were adopted by means of Government Agreement No. 250-2006. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether the abovementioned regulations are applied directly with respect to this provision of the Convention or whether it is necessary to amend existing standards for them to be applied.

Article 5, Part III(a). Notification of cases of lead poisoning. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s statement to the effect that Agreement No. 1401 of the Executive Board of the Guatemalan Social Security Institute contains a list of occupational diseases which includes lead poisoning. The Committee notes that the agreement considers an occupational disease to be one contracted as an immediate, direct and unquestionable result of the type of work performed by the worker. The Committee requests the Government to supply further information on the application of the agreement and take account of the fact that this provision of the Convention covers cases not only of lead poisoning but also of suspected lead poisoning and that both types of case must be notified. It also requests the Government to indicate the provisions which make notification of cases of lead poisoning and of suspected lead poisoning obligatory and to provide information on their application in practice.

Article 7. Compilation of statistics on lead poisoning among working painters with respect to morbidity. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Guatemalan Social Security Institute compiles statistics on morbidity and mortality due to lead poisoning and also notes the statement by the Institute in 2009 that no cases of lead poisoning were reported in Guatemala. It is the Committee’s understanding, as indicated in its comments on Article 5, that there is no obligation to notify cases of lead poisoning and of suspected lead poisoning, which would have a certain impact on statistics. The Committee requests the Government to supply more detailed information in this respect.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

1. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s last report. It notes in particular the information on the application of Article 6 of the Convention (consultation with the employers’ and workers’ organizations concerned on the steps to be taken to ensure the application of the Convention). However, the Committee notes that, despite its reiterated requests, the Government omits to submit detailed information on the application of the following Articles of the Convention.

2. Article 2 of the Convention. Regulation of the use of white lead, sulphate of lead, and all products containing these pigments, in the various types of work. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes that inspections and investigations are carried out in enterprises operating in the painting industry, and that the two biggest such enterprises in the Republic (Grupo Solid SA and Comes) have indicated that they do not use white lead. It also notes that the General Directorate of Social Insurance, through the Occupational Safety and Health Department, is envisaging a follow-up plan in these enterprises and will make the necessary contacts with a view to conducting a professional investigation to ensure that white lead is not used in the manufacture of paint. It notes that the above Department has expressed interest in cooperating with ILO safety and health experts for the training of its personnel. The Committee requests the Government to keep it informed of any developments in this respect.

3. Article 3, paragraph 1. The necessary measures to ensure that males under 18 years of age and females do not perform any painting work of an industrial character involving the use of white lead or sulphate of lead or other products containing these pigments. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it is formulating draft regulations on the worst forms of child labour, which are about to be submitted to the executive authorities for approval and in which there is an implicit prohibition of the use of toxic chemicals which are harmful to health. The Committee hopes that the above regulations will be adopted in the near future and that the relevant measures will guarantee that workers are not involved in painting work involving the use of white lead. It requests the Government to provide full information on the progress achieved in this respect, as well as copies of the new legislative texts or regulations adopted.

4. Article 5(II)(a), (b) and (c), in conjunction with Part V of the report form. Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Occupational Safety and Health Department, through health and safety technicians, undertakes advisory and information missions to enterprises with a view to monitoring compliance with the legislation in force respecting occupational safety and health. It also notes the absence of substantive information on the practical results achieved through inspections, such as extracts of inspection reports on the infringements detected, etc. The Committee requests the Government to provide the above information in its next report in order to enable the Committee to determine the extent to which the Convention is applied in practice in the country.

5. Article 5(III)(a). Notification of cases of lead poisoning. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that occupational diseases are still not classified and that the Guatemalan Social Security Institute records cases of lead poisoning in each district, but that they are not always considered to be occupational diseases, and are also registered as common diseases. The Committee hopes that occupational diseases will be classified in the near future, that penalties will be imposed on employers failing to notify cases of lead poisoning and that the activities of the Guatemalan Social Security Institute will lead to the identification of cases of lead poisoning and of suspected lead poisoning. It requests the Government to keep it informed of any developments in this connection.

6. Article 5(IV). Obligation to distribute to working painters instructions with regard to the special hygienic precautions to be taken in the painting trade. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government’s report contains no information on this subject. The Committee trusts that the Government will soon be in a position to take the necessary measures, by means of regulations or other means, to ensure that information and instructions on occupational safety and health standards are provided to all workers and employers concerned, as a prerequisite for compliance with the protection standards established by this provision of the Convention.

7. Article 7. Compilation of statistics on lead poisoning among working painters as to morbidity. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Guatemalan Social Security Institute compiles statistics on lead poisoning as to morbidity and mortality and that, through the National Occupational Safety and Health Council, which is part of the above Institute, instructions are given for its classification as an occupational disease and so that real data on lead poisoning can be obtained. The Committee trusts that the Institute will undertake a compilation in the very near future of data as to morbidity and mortality caused by lead poisoning and it requests the Government to supply the above data with its next report.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2004, published 93rd ILC session (2005)

The Committee takes note of the Government’s last report and the information supplied in response to its previous comments. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the following points requiring additional measures in conformity with the provisions of this Convention.

Article 2 of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that in the framework of investigations carried out by the General Directorate of Social Protection in 2001 in the painting industries concerning the use of white lead in painting, it has been stated that this pigment is neither contained in the painting used in the country nor manufactured in the country. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether these investigations are based on clear definitions that distinguish between the various forms of paintings.

In addition, it requests the Government to indicate whether such studies are carried out on a regular basis to ensure that white lead indeed remains replaced by other products or pigments, for by virtue of Regulation No. 2 of Government Agreement No. 475-91 of 16 July 1991 the use of white lead in paintings used for the internal painting of buildings is not strictly prohibited.

Article 3, paragraph 1. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that by virtue of Regulation No. 2 of Governmental Agreement No. 475-91 of 16 July 1991, the use of white lead and sulphate of lead and all products containing these pigments in the painting of buildings and houses is prohibited. The Committee understands from this indication that the Government apparently does not consider necessary to regulate the issue of employment of minors and women in any painting work of an industrial character involving the use of white or sulphate of lead or other products containing these pigments, as called for by this provision of the Convention. In view of this fact, the Committee however recalls that by virtue of Regulation No. 2 of Government Agreement No. 475-91 of 16 July 1991, the use of white lead in paintings used for the internal painting of buildings is not strictly prohibited, but allowed if considered necessary by the competent authorities for the use in railway stations or industrial establishments. The Committee therefore requests the Government to take the necessary measures to guarantee that minors under 18 years of age and women are not employed in any painting work of an industrial character involving the use of white lead or sulphate of lead or other products containing these pigments, in conformity with Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

Article 5(II)(a), (b) and (c), in conjunction with Part V of the report form. With regard to the results of inspections carried out to monitor the application of the provisions of the Convention, the Committee notes that the Government does not provide substantive information on the concrete outcome of the inspections carried out, e.g. extracts from inspection reports on infractions detected, etc., but merely provides data on the number of occupational safety and health committees, the number of enterprises visited, the number of workers covered. The Committee therefore requests the Government to supply the information on the results of inspections carried out to enable the Committee to determine the extent to which the Convention indeed is applied in practice in the country.

Article 5(III)(a). The Committee notes the Government’s indication that there does not exist a system of notification for cases of lead poisoning or suspected cases of lead poisoning. However, according to the Government, the investigation in cases of lead poisoning or suspected lead poisoning is ensured by the Guatemalan Social Security Institute, which, through its services, detects the cases of lead poisoning requiring medical treatment. The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate the penalties imposed on employers which fail to notify the cases of lead poisoning and to specify the activities of the Guatemalan Social Security Institute that lead to the discovery of cases of lead poisoning or suspected lead poisoning.

Article 5(IV). With regard to the project announced by the Government in its report of 1996, in which framework occupational safety and health standards in enterprises in the metropolitan area and within the country are disseminated as well as the government instructions regarding the special hygienic precautions to be taken in the painting trade, the Government indicates that this project has not been implemented yet for logistical and financial reasons. The Committee hopes that the Government will soon overcome these problems in order to ensure that information and instructions on occupational safety and health standards will be brought to the attention to all workers and employers concerned which is a prerequisite that protective standards applying this provision of the Convention are respected.

Article 6. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Guatemalan Social Security Institute and the Minister of Labour and Social Prevention are in charge of the monitoring of the application of the provisions contained in Government Agreement No. 475-91 of 1991. In this respect, the Committee recalls that the provision of Article 6 of the Convention requires consultations between the competent authority, workers’ and employers’ organizations concerned to take the necessary steps ensuring the application of the regulations adopted in application of the provisions of this Convention. The Committee therefore requests the Government to indicate whether, and, if so, in which manner the workers’ and employers’ organizations concerned are consulted on steps to be taken to ensure the application of the above Government Agreement.

Article 7. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that at present no data on the morbidity and the mortality due to lead poisoning are available. In this respect, the Committee refers to its previous comments where it had noted the Government’s indication that contact was made with the Guatemalan Social Security Institute with a view to establish the above statistics on morbidity and mortality due to lead poisoning. The Committee therefore requests the Government to indicate whether it still envisages to charge the Guatemalan Social Security Institute to compile the required statistics. It hopes that the Government will soon take the necessary steps to this effect to ensure that statistics on the morbidity and mortality due to lead poisoning are established, in application of this Article of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1996, published 85th ILC session (1997)

The Committee notes the information supplied in the Government's latest report in reply to its previous comments. It requests the Government to provide additional information on the following points:

Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that Regulation No. 2 of Governmental Agreement No. 475-91 of 16 July 1991 concerning the application of the Convention prohibits the use of white lead and sulphate of lead and all products containing these pigments in the painting of buildings and houses. The Committee further noted that this Regulation permits exceptions to be made to this prohibition in the case of railway stations or industrial establishments when the use of such pigments is considered necessary by the competent authority. The Committee recalled that this Article of the Convention allows for such exceptions only after consultation with the employers' and workers' organizations concerned. The Committee notes the Government's statement in its latest report to the effect that, although such consultations have not yet been held, they will take place in the Tripartite Commission on International Affairs. The Committee notes in this respect the information supplied by the Government on the application of Convention No. 144, according to which the Tripartite Commission meets every two weeks with a view to ensuring effective participation by employers' and workers' organizations in the formulation of draft labour legislation and the supervision of its application. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on the exceptions that have been made or are envisaged and the consultations held in this respect.

Article 2. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its report to the effect that there are no provisions containing definitions that distinguish between the various forms of painting. Studies are being undertaken with a view to replacing white lead by another product and regulations will be adopted upon the completion of these studies. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the completion of the above studies and the effect given to them.

Article 3, paragraph 1. The Committee noted previously that section 148 of the Labour Code prohibits the employment of males under 16 years of age and of all females in dangerous or unhealthy work, to be defined by an executive order. The Committee notes that no such order has yet been adopted. Recalling that under the terms of this Article it is prohibited to employ women of any age and men under the age of 18 years in painting work of an industrial character involving the use of white lead or sulphate of lead or other products containing these pigments, the Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures that have been taken or are envisaged to guarantee observance of this Article of the Convention.

Article 5(II)(a), (b) and (c). With reference to its previous comments concerning the provision to workers employed in dangerous or unhealthy establishments of washing facilities and the access to these facilities of working painters whose work involves the use of white lead, sulphate of lead or products containing these pigments (Article 5(II)(a) of the Convention), and the wearing of overalls and the obligation to adopt suitable arrangements to prevent clothing put off during working hours from being soiled by painting material (Article 5(II)(b) and (c)), the Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its report to the effect that health and safety inspectors ensure the application of these provisions. With reference also to Part V of the report form, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the results of these inspections.

The Committee also notes the Government's statement in its report that the Minister will this year embark upon the implementation of a project covering the dissemination of occupational health and safety standards in enterprises in the metropolitan area and within the country. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on the results achieved by this initiative.

Article 5(III)(a). The Committee noted previously that the Guatemalan Social Security Institute is the competent authority responsible for cases of lead poisoning and of suspected lead poisoning. In its last report, the Government states that the Department of Preventive Medicine, in coordination with the Occupational Safety and Health Section of the Ministry, is responsible for the application of this Article. The Committee once again requests the Government to indicate the manner in which cases of lead poisoning and of suspected lead poisoning are notified and are subject to subsequent medical verification by a doctor appointed by the competent authority.

Article 5(IV). With reference to its previous comments concerning the instructions with regard to special hygienic precautions to be taken in the painting trade, the Committee notes that the Government has not been able to ascertain whether such instructions have been distributed, but that the above project for the dissemination of standards will contribute in this respect. The Committee hopes that the Government will supply information on the effect given to the project in this regard.

Article 6. The Committee noted previously that Regulation No. 8 of Governmental Agreement No. 475-91 provides for the supervision by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security of the application of the regulations concerning the use of white lead in painting work and it requested the Government to provide information on the manner in which the employers' and workers' organizations concerned have been or will be consulted on the steps to be taken to ensure observance of the relevant regulations. The Committee notes that the Government refers in this respect to the above-mentioned Tripartite Commission. The Committee hopes that the Government will provide information in its next report on all the measures that have been taken in consultation with employers' and workers' organizations.

Article 7. The Committee notes that the Government has made contact with the Guatemalan Social Security Institute and the National Statistical Institute with a view to the compilation of statistics on morbidity and mortality due to lead poisoning. The Committee hopes that the Government will be in a position to supply these statistics with its next report.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

The Committee notes the information provided in the Government's last report in reply to its previous comments. The Committee requests the Government to provide additional information on the following points:

Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that Regulation 2 of Governmental Agreement No. 475-91 of 16 July 1991, concerning the application of ILO Convention No. 13, prohibits the use of white lead and sulphate of lead and all products containing these pigments in the painting of buildings or houses. The Committee further noted that this regulation permits exceptions to be made to this prohibition in the case of railway stations or industrial establishments when the use of such pigments is considered necessary by the competent authority. The Committee recalled that this Article of the Convention allows for such exceptions only after consultation with the employers' and workers' organizations concerned. Noting the Government's indication in its last report that consultations have not taken place, but that such permitted exceptions are envisaged, the Committee hopes that the Government will indicate the measures taken to ensure that the employers' and workers' organizations are consulted if any such exceptions are made.

Article 3, paragraph 1. The Committee previously noted that section 148 of the Labour Code prohibits the employment of males under 16 years of age and all females in dangerous or unhealthy work, to be defined in an Executive Order. The Committee notes the Government's indication in its last report that no specific regulations concerning the use of white lead have been issued. It therefore requests the Government to indicate whether any decrees have been recently issued to ensure, in particular, that all females and all males under the age of 18 are not employed in any painting work of an industrial character involving the use of white lead or sulphate of lead or other products containing these pigments, as called for by this Article of the Convention.

Article 5.II(a). The Committee previously noted that section 99 of the General Occupational Safety and Health Regulations of 28 December 1957 provides that showers should be provided in the case of operations which, by their special nature, are dangerous to health. The Committee notes the indication in the Government's last report that inspections carried out by the occupational safety and health sections of the Guatemalan Institute of Social Security and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security ensure that adequate washing facilities are provided for workers employed in dangerous or especially unclean undertakings. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate the extent to which working painters using white lead, sulphate of lead and products containing these pigments, etc. in their operations have access to such facilities.

Article 5.II(b) and (c). The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate how Article 5.II(b) and (c) (requirement that working painters wear overalls during the whole of the working period; and obligation to make suitable arrangements to prevent clothing removed during working hours from being soiled by painting materials) is applied in practice through inspections or other means.

Article 5.III(a). The Committee notes the indication in the Government's last report that the Guatemalan Social Security Institute is the responsible competent authority handling cases of lead poisoning and suspected lead poisoning. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the manner in which these cases are notified to the competent authority and whether they are subsequently verified by a medical person appointed by the competent authority.

Article 5.IV. The Committee notes that the Government states in its last report that this provision of the Convention is applied through the application of the standards under ILO Convention No. 161 (ratified by Guatemala in 1989), and Governmental Agreement No. 359-91, in force since 16 October 1991, which sets forth the regulations for the application of Convention No. 161, including the requirement that all enterprises with over 25 workers establish an occupational health service within six months of the Agreement's entry into force. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether any occupational health services established pursuant to Governmental Order No. 359-91, distribute instructions with regard to special hygienic precautions to be taken in the painting trade.

Article 6. The Committee noted in its previous comments that Regulation 8 of Governmental Agreement No. 475-91 provides for the supervision of the application of the Regulations concerning white lead in painting by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. The Committee recalled that this Article of the Convention provides that the competent authority shall take such steps as it considers necessary to ensure the observance of the prescribed regulations, after consultation with the employers' and workers' organizations concerned. Noting the Government's indication in its last report that, thus far, such consultations have not been envisaged, the Committee hopes that the Government will provide information on the manner in which the employers' and workers' organizations concerned have been or will be consulted on the steps to be taken to ensure observance with the relevant regulations.

Article 7. The Committee reiterates its request to the Government to indicate the statistical methods adopted to determine morbidity and mortality due to lead poisoning, and to furnish any such statistics with its next report.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the following matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention. The Committee notes that Regulation 2 of the Government Agreement No. 475-91 of 16 July 1991 concerning the application of ILO Convention No. 13 prohibits the use of white lead and sulphate of lead and of all products containing these pigments in the painting of buildings or houses. This regulation permits exceptions to be made to this prohibition in the case of railway stations or industrial establishments when the use of such pigments is considered necessary by the competent authority. The Committee would recall that this Article of the Convention permits for such exceptions only after consultation with the employers' and workers' organizations concerned. The Government is, therefore, requested to indicate the measures taken to ensure that the workers' and employers' organizations be consulted when such exceptions are permitted and to indicate if any such exceptions have already been made.

Article 3, paragraph 1. The Committee notes that section 148 of the Labour Code prohibits the employment of males under 16 years of age and all females in dangerous or unhealthy work to be defined in an Executive Decree. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether any Decrees have been issued to ensure, in particular, that all females and all males under the age of 18 are not employed in any painting work of an industrial character involving the use of white lead or sulphate of lead or other products containing these pigments, as called for by this Article of the Convention.

Article 5.II(a). The Committee notes that Regulation 5(d) of Government Agreement No. 475-91 calls for the promotion of healthy habits among workers such as daily baths, and washing hands and changing clothes before eating or leaving work. It further notes that section 99 of the General Occupational Safety and Health Regulations of 28 December 1957 provides that showers should be provided in the case of operations which, by their special nature, are dangerous to health. The Government is requested to indicate any measures taken under section 99 to ensure that adequate washing facilities are provided in the case of working painters using white lead, etc in their operations.

Article 5.II(b). The Committee notes that Regulation 5(c) provides that workers shall be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment to avoid direct contact with toxic substances while painting. Under section 94(f) of the General Occupational Safety and Health Regulations, employers must provide workers with special working clothes or equipment where the workers are exposed to a particular danger of disease or injury. Furthermore, the Committee notes that under Regulation 5(f), workers must use the personal protective equipment. The Government is requested to indicate any measures taken to ensure that working painters are required to wear overalls during the whole of the working period, as provided for by this Article of the Convention.

Article 5.II(c). The Committee notes that section 101 of the General Occupational Safety and Health Regulations of 1957 sets standards for cloakrooms for changing clothes. The Government is requested to indicate any measures taken to ensure that suitable arrangements are made for all working painters using white lead to prevent clothing put off during working hours from being soiled by painting material such as providing changing rooms separate from the working area.

Article 5.III.(a). The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that cases of lead poisoning and suspected lead poisoning are notified to the competent authority and that they are subsequently verified by a medical person appointed by the competent authority, as required by this Article of the Convention.

Article 5.IV. The Government is requested to indicate any measures taken to ensure that instructions with regard to the special hygienic precautions to be taken in the painting trade are distributed to working painters.

Article 6. The Committee notes that Regulation 8 of Government Agreement No. 475-91 provides for the supervision of the application of the Regulations concerning white lead in painting by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. The Committee would recall that this Article of the Convention provides that the competent authority shall take such steps as it considers necessary to ensure the observance of the prescribed regulations, after consultation with the employers' and workers' organizations concerned. The Government is requested to indicate the manner in which the employers' and workers' organizations concerned were consulted on the steps to be taken to ensure observance with the relevant regulations.

Article 7. The Government is requested to indicate the statistical methods adopted to determine morbidity and mortality due to lead poisoning and to furnish any such statistics with its next report.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1993, published 80th ILC session (1993)

The Committee notes with interest the information provided in the Government's first report. It requests the Government to provide further information in its next report on the following points:

Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest that Regulation 2 of the Government Agreement No. 475-91 of 16 July 1991 concerning the application of ILO Convention No. 13 prohibits the use of white lead and sulphate of lead and of all products containing these pigments in the painting of buildings or houses. This regulation permits exceptions to be made to this prohibition in the case of railway stations or industrial establishments when the use of such pigments is considered necessary by the competent authority. The Committee would recall that this Article of the Convention permits for such exceptions only after consultation with the employers' and workers' organizations concerned. The Government is, therefore, requested to indicate the measures taken to ensure that the workers' and employers' organizations be consulted when such exceptions are permitted and to indicate if any such exceptions have already been made.

Article 3, paragraph 1. The Committee notes that section 148 of the Labour Code prohibits the employment of males under 16 years of age and all females in dangerous or unhealthy work to be defined in an Executive Decree. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether any Decrees have been issued to ensure, in particular, that all females and all males under the age of 18 are not employed in any painting work of an industrial character involving the use of white lead or sulphate of lead or other products containing these pigments, as called for by this Article of the Convention.

Article 5.II(a). The Committee notes that Regulation 5(d) of Government Agreement No. 475-91 calls for the promotion of healthy habits among workers such as daily baths, and washing hands and changing clothes before eating or leaving work. It further notes that section 99 of the General Occupational Safety and Health Regulations of 28 December 1957 provides that showers should be provided in the case of operations which, by their special nature, are dangerous to health. The Government is requested to indicate any measures taken under section 99 to ensure that adequate washing facilities are provided in the case of working painters using white lead, etc in their operations.

Article 5.II(b). The Committee notes that Regulation 5(c) provides that workers shall be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment to avoid direct contact with toxic substances while painting. Under section 94(f) of the General Occupational Safety and Health Regulations, employers must provide workers with special working clothes or equipment where the workers are exposed to a particular danger of disease or injury. Furthermore, the Committee notes that under Regulation 5(f), workers must use the personal protective equipment. The Government is requested to indicate any measures taken to ensure that working painters are required to wear overalls during the whole of the working period, as provided for by this Article of the Convention.

Article 5.II(c). The Committee notes that section 101 of the General Occupational Safety and Health Regulations of 1957 sets standards for cloakrooms for changing clothes. The Government is requested to indicate any measures taken to ensure that suitable arrangements are made for all working painters using white lead to prevent clothing put off during working hours from being soiled by painting material such as providing changing rooms separate from the working area.

Article 5.III.(a). The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that cases of lead poisoning and suspected lead poisoning are notified to the competent authority and that they are subsequently verified by a medical person appointed by the competent authority, as required by this Article of the Convention.

Article 5.IV. The Government is requested to indicate any measures taken to ensure that instructions with regard to the special hygienic precautions to be taken in the painting trade are distributed to working painters.

Article 6. The Committee notes that Regulation 8 of Government Agreement No. 475-91 provides for the supervision of the application of the Regulations concerning white lead in painting by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. The Committee would recall that this Article of the Convention provides that the competent authority shall take such steps as it considers necessary to ensure the observance of the prescribed regulations, after consultation with the employers' and workers' organizations concerned. The Government is requested to indicate the manner in which the employers' and workers' organizations concerned were consulted on the steps to be taken to ensure observance with the relevant regulations.

Article 7. The Government is requested to indicate the statistical methods adopted to determine morbidity and mortality due to lead poisoning and to furnish any such statistics with its next report.