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Following the news of a six-month extension by the Health and Safety Executive of its lead ammunition restriction process, Terry Behan assesses what it may mean for shooting.
It would be ill-advised to read too much into the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) decision to extend the UK REACH process by six months. As stated in their press release, this is a move that is open to them. Coincidently, it was used by their predecessor, EU REACH, in their lead ammunition process.
However, the HSE’s announcement did also include some new information.
What is now known for certain is that the responses to UK REACH have overwhelmed the HSE. Even after tripling their staffing levels they have struggled to get through the thousands of responses.
While not all of these will be favourable to shooting, we know that many businesses, clubs, ranges and individuals took part in the consultation. The shooting sector getting our collective experience and knowledge over to the HSE will be essential in them coming to the correct conclusions.
With regards the decision to extend the process, there can only be agreement with the views of HSE’s Dr Richard Daniels who is quoted as saying that “it is important we get this exercise right for the benefit of affected groups, peoples’ health and the environment”. This next six months should allow them ample time to get the work done.
Positively, the press release states: “An initial review of responses indicates that alternative risk management options (including alternative derogations) may need to be considered”.
While caution at this early stage must be applied, it does suggest the HSE has recognised some of the concerns. It is BASC’s objective to ensure that these concerns are those raised in our response.
With the extension implemented, it makes sense that the next stage of the UK REACH process, the socio-economic assessment consultation, is also delayed. Thankfully BASC has already received assurances that the consultation will now be put back from the original start date of February.
We remain committed to the five-year voluntary transition away from lead shot for live quarry shooting, and stand firm on our position that any eventual restrictions imposed by the HSE on any form of lead ammunition must be evidenced and proportionate to the risks.
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