The European Commission is pleased to announce a significant political agreement reached between the European Parliament and the Council on the proposed amendments to two key Directives. The amendments aim to enhance worker protection against the potential hazards associated with exposure to lead and diisocyanates, both known to pose serious health risks. This agreement is a crucial milestone in upholding the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan and the EU Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work for 2021-2027.
Regarding lead, the revised Directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens, mutagens, and reprotoxic substances at work will introduce substantially reduced exposure limits. These limits will serve as a powerful tool in preventing health issues, such as reproductive disorders and developmental complications in workers.
Similarly, the amendment to the Directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work will address the dangers associated with diisocyanates. The new exposure limits for these chemicals will play a vital role in combating occupational asthma and other respiratory diseases, thus further safeguarding workers’ wellbeing.
The significance of this agreement cannot be overstated. It represents a significant stride towards the effective implementation of occupational safety and health measures outlined in the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan. Additionally, it aligns with the EU Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work for 2021-2027, which aims to further reduce workers’ exposure to hazardous substances.
Moreover, as part of this agreement, comprehensive guidelines will be established to assist member states in successfully incorporating the amendments into their respective legal frameworks. These guidelines will address critical areas, including the protection of women of childbearing age and the combined exposure to mixtures of substances.
In light of this momentous achievement, Commissioner Nicolas Schmit emphasizes the non-negotiable importance of prioritizing the health and safety of workers. He asserts that the political agreement reached is a testament to the commitment underlying the EU strategic framework on occupational safety and health, and further affirms that workers’ health risks due to lead and diisocyanates exposure will be substantially minimized.
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