The DTI has issued a factsheet covering new EC restrictions on the marketing and use of creosote in a bid to clear up confusion among merchants.

A number of companies have been uncertain about whether they can still sell creosote-treated railway sleepers following the introduction of the EC directive on June 30, which prohibits the DIY use of creosote, imposes tough restrictions on its professional use and lists applications where treated wood should not be used.

In publishing its “Factsheet and Frequently Asked Questions” document on its website, the DTI has also clarified its own position. Earlier it had told TTJ that creosote-treated railway sleepers would no longer be able to be used in domestic gardens.

A DTI spokesperson said: “You will still be able to sell creosoted railway sleepers and people will still be able to use them as long as there is not a risk of frequent skin contact.

“We advise against making a table out of railway sleepers – the directive prohibits that. But if you want to use them as borders in flower beds it is not a risk of frequent skin contact.

&#8220You will still be able to sell creosoted railway sleepers and people will still be able to use them as long as there is not a risk of frequent skin contact”

DTI spokesperson

“We realise there has been a certain amount of confusion on the market and that we have to put some information out to clarify things.”

Basildon-based BSG Builders Merchants Ltd said many merchants were unsure about the scope of the ban. It has sold most of its old sleepers and has now introduced new untreated oak versions.

Chris Coggins, director of the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA), said: “We are pleased that the DTI has produced guidance in respect of two things – the supply of second-hand railway sleepers to the public and a definition of frequent skin contact.”