In 1981 the British Columbia Chlorophenate Wood Protection Task Force was formed to respond to workers' health and environmental concerns regarding the use of chlorophenoxides for control of sapstain and mould fungi at sawmills and lumber export terminals. The task force consisted of representatives of both the federal government (Environment Canada) and the provincial government (British Columbia), the B.C. forest industry and labour unions. After two years of deliberations the task force has produced a document "Code of Good Practice" for the design and operation of wood protection facilities. This code provides recommendations for workers' health and safety and for the storage, transportation and disposal of chlorophenoxide liquids and contaminated water and solid wastes. The code details in ten sections such aspects as the need for wood protection; chlorophenols and chlorophenoxides - physical and chemical properties, toxicity, human health effects; personnel protection; general practices at wood protection facilities; recommended design features; recommended operating practices; transportation of chlorophenoxide-containing materials; disposal of wastes; spill contingency planning and a summary of the Canadian legislation on the topic.

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