In a decisive move to strengthen worker safety across Europe, lawmakers in the European Parliament’s Employment and Social Affairs Committee have backed new rules aimed
at reducing exposure to hazardous chemicals in key industries.
The proposal, part of the sixth revision of the EU’s directive on carcinogens, mutagens and reprotoxic substances (CMRD), was adopted with overwhelming support—45 votes in favour, none against, and 10 abstentions. The updated measures introduce stricter exposure limits based on the latest scientific evidence, targeting substances widely used in sectors such as battery manufacturing, steel production, and textiles.
Among the chemicals affected are cobalt and its inorganic compounds, commonly used in battery production; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, found in heavy industries like iron and aluminium manufacturing; and 1,4-dioxane, used in chemical and textile processes. Lawmakers also agreed to regulate exposure to welding fumes, a long-standing occupational hazard.
A notable addition is isoprene, a substance used in rubber and chemical industries. Although not previously regulated at this level, it is now recognized for its carcinogenic potential. Long-term exposure can lead to serious health conditions, including liver cancer and anaemia.
Beyond setting limits, the committee is pushing for stronger workplace protections. Employers would be required to provide personal protective equipment—such as respiratory gear—whenever exposure cannot be reduced below safe thresholds. These protections must be tailored to individual workers, and employees using such equipment should be entitled to regular breaks in contamination-free environments.
Special attention is also being given to high-risk professions. Firefighters and emergency responders, who are routinely exposed to toxic substances, could benefit from enhanced safeguards, including dedicated risk assessments, improved protective measures, and ongoing medical monitoring.
Recognizing the challenges for smaller companies, lawmakers are calling on EU member states to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through financial and technical assistance, while also tracking how the new rules impact them.
The proposal also introduces a gender-sensitive approach to workplace safety, acknowledging that exposure risks and health impacts can differ between men and women. Lawmakers want this perspective integrated into all occupational health policies moving forward.
According to European Commission, the updated directive could prevent around 1,700 cases of lung cancer and 19,000 other illnesses over the next four decades—highlighting the long-term public health impact of the legislation.
“This is about ensuring that no one gets sick simply by doing their job,” said Liesbet Sommen, the lead negotiator on the file. She emphasized that approximately 120,000 workers in the EU are diagnosed with work-related cancer each year, underscoring the urgency of stronger protections.
The committee has also approved the start of negotiations with EU member states, although the mandate still requires confirmation by the full Parliament. Once approved, talks with the Council will determine the final shape of the law.
If adopted, the revised directive would mark a significant step forward in reducing occupational diseases and improving working conditions across the European Union.