Press Release: Environment: Tighter restrictions on industrial creosote use

Tough restrictions on the industrial uses of creosote, a toxic chemical known for its use on wooden railway sleepers, electricity poles and in fencing, will come into force on 1 May 2013, following a tightening of rules by the European Commission. Creosote, a carcinogenic substance, may no longer be placed on the EU market unless a company receives an authorisation to do so. Consumer use of creosote has been banned since 2003.