UK implementation of the Seveso II Directive

The Seveso II Directive on the control of major accident hazards involving dangerous substances was adopted on 9 December 1996. Draft regulations to implement the Directive, called the Control of Major Accident Hazards Regulations (COMAH), have to be in force by 3 February 1999. Whilst COMAH will cover most of the Directive, land use planning aspects are being implemented by changes to planning law. The Directive covers protection to people and the environment from major accidents. DETR and HSE are jointly responsible for implementation and the environment agencies have been closely involved in the development of the regime. This paper covers: the background to the development of the Directive; the main changes which the regulations will introduce to the existing regime; and the timetable for changes