Is creosote safe to use?

SteveBrooke

Dear All,
Since posting my original query, I am now on the fourth week of having no kitchen while structural repairs are being done. The builders have sealed the woodwork of the cellar ceiling using creosote. The fumes are really bad, starting suffer a few headaches, hopefully this will subside in a few days!. Is creosote safe to use in an enclosed environment, with a tenant still living in the property?

Thanks for any replies.

Kind regards,

Steve

maninthestreet

Creosote is intended for use outside of any property. Why would internal timbers need the level of protection from damp/rot that creosite provides? Are you sure it is creosote and not some other (less toxic) substance?

princeofpounds

http://www.wood-protection.org/newpubs/files/WPA_Guidance_Creosote_version_0109.pdf

Seems to be very restricted... The link above contains info and mentions some legislation. I would have some concerns about this, but afraid I don't have the time to do a better search for you.

SailorSam

I've just read another thread and one of the favourite smells for posters was creosote.
I didn't think you could buy it now, when i've painted the garden fence all the shops seem to only have fence paint.
So as the previous poster says, are you sure it's creosote.

gettingbetter

hi

i thought creosote was now banned
i might be wrong but i am pretty
sure it is not meant for indoor use

you can get a creosote subsitute
but i still dont think it
should be used inside
the experts will be along soon

kas xx

lfc321

Creosote has been banned for sale and use by normal DIYers for about the last 5 years because of concerns over the health effects (it's thought that it is probably carcinogenic). You won't find it in B&Q etc any more, although they sell creosote substitutes.

It can still be used in some circumstances by professional users- so your builders may not actually be breaking the law - but it's not nice stuff. As far as I know it would not normally be used indoors. I would guess this would be even worse ina cellar which wouldn't normally have great ventilation.

Why not ask your builders what they've used and why? At the very least they should warn you about any health and safety advice that comes with the products they're using. As maninthestreet said, it may not actually be creosote at all. Still not good if it's giving you headaches, though.

SteveBrooke

Many thanks for the replies.

I've just found out that the product used is called "Creocote" from Barrattine. I believe this maybe a Creosote substitute.

Many thanks for the quick responses.

Kind regards,

Steve Brooke

lfc321

Creocote isn't supposed to be used on internal timbers - see section 7 of the product data sheet here - http://www.wickes.co.uk/content/ebiz/wickes/resources/images/coshh/170711.pdf.

Headaches are a recognised effect of inhalation - section 11.

MercMan

Creosote can kill cats IIRC. I never used it in the garden when I had cats for that reason.