National Semiconductor Statement In Response to HSE Health Study

November 25, 1999 - National Semiconductor is co-operating with the Health and Safety Executive to collect data with reference to employment history of current and former employees at our facility in Greenock, Scotland. We have always co-operated --and expect to continue co-operating-- with legitimate government agencies whose qualified professionals' findings are based on thorough, independent scientific research.

According to the HSE, there is no current scientific evidence showing the existence of an increased incidence of cancer as a result of working at National. However, we are co-operating with the HSE on its study of our workforce as it seeks to confirm this information.

We will not speculate on the outcome of the study. We are committed to providing a safe work environment, and, if scientific evidence borne out by the study indicates a link between our facility and adverse health effects, we will take it very seriously and take appropriate action.

National's Greenock facility has received numerous British Safety Council Awards. It is monitored regularly by a number of government agencies including the HSE and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency. The welfare of our workforce is always our top priority, and we have every confidence in the procedures we have in place for workers' protection.