Document G6OLxjr52qxQMVe8MNwEZG5Ox

Benzene I Exposure Studies Potential Public Issues Background on China, apparel industry Issues overview Summary 1~3'//.J ~.,. g~ ou ~ American Petroleum Institute Benzene Task Force August 31, 2000 Lynn B. Russo China Complex, sophisticated society undergoing substantial political and economic change Shanghai an important city politically and economically Recent political changes include village - elections Interested in learning from outside experts for adaptation to Chinese system Approach to work place regulation complex Manufacturers can set expectations for contracted plants China's health agency addresses benzene exposure Apparel industry has been an NGO focus area G:LBRlPowerpolnUBenzene Exposure Study Aug 2000.ppt t.en.n. ;! uo8 :2 Apparel Industry Focus of NGO Attention Critiques of Asian factories/plants focused on U.S. brands NGO's and labor address wide variety of issue Fair Labor Practices Association to begin plant monitoring Industry has not addressed common standards I Benzene exposure levels at shoe assembly plants is a recognized issue Local workers aware of differences among adhesives U.S. manufacturers moving toward water-based adhesives Some interest from regulatory authorities in China G:lBRlPowarpolntIBenzene Exposure StUdy Aug 2000,ppt ~ '<t :oU::; Public Policy Issues to be Addressed Political considerations: ensure appropriate entities involved/informed Interrelationship among government entities in China Impact on plants, companies outside Shanghai (China and other Asian countries) Communications about studies Industry considerations: reach out to U.S.lEuropean companies Role of apparel companies Evolution of voluntary standards during studies Impact on other industries (local plants and International contractors, suppliers) "Regulatory" considerations: participate In initiatives for regulatory change International regulatory Initiatives (ILO) Potential changes in China's approach NGO community: communicate with key NGO's G:lBRIPowerpolnVBenzene Exposure Study Aug 2000.Ppt en I :uo:. Conditions Required to Address Public Issues Ethical issues addressed in responsible I defensible manner Industry funders agree to participate in debate on benzene exposure levels Handling of interim reports and communications are addressed by consortium Means of incorporating non-U .S. expertise is identified Resources are identified for Public Affairs program .~.. oo :2i G:L.BRlPowerpolnIl8enz:ene E"posure Study Aug 2000.ppl