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Commission acts to improve protection of workers with new exposure limits for lead and diisocyanates

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On 13 February, the Commission took action to further improve the protection of workers from the health risks linked to the exposure to dangerous chemicals: lead and diisocyanates. In the case of lead, a significantly reduced exposure limit will help prevent health issues of workers, for example affecting reproductive functions and foetal development. For diisocyanates, a new exposure limit will prevent cases of asthma and other respiratory diseases.

Concretely, the Commission proposes to amend two Directives: Directive 2004/37/EC on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens, mutagens and reprotoxic substances at work (CMRD) for lead, and Directive 1998/24/EC on the protection of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work (Chemical Agents Directive, CAD) for lead and diisocyanates.

Jobs and Social Rights Commissioner Nicolas Schmit said: “Today, we deliver on our commitment to better protect workers from lead by introducing drastically-reduced exposure limits. In addition, we propose, for the very first time, EU-level protective limit values for diisocyanates which can cause asthma and other respiratory diseases. This proposal will contribute to creating healthier and safer workplaces, and it will protect hundreds of thousands of workers across the EU, which is a key commitment under the European Pillar of Social Rights.”

Today's proposal is the result of an extensive consultation process, including a two-stage consultation with social partners, and of close collaboration with scientists and representatives of workers, employers, and Member States. The Commission's proposal will now be discussed by the European Parliament and the Council.

A press release is available online.

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