Summary
The proposal updates EU rules to better protect workers from cancer-causing and reproductive-harming substances, including new limits for cobalt and welding fumes. 10 23.06.2026
Other
health
labour law
human rights
public safety
social policy
social security
administrative law
public administration
employment and working conditions
Key points
- The proposal aims to update EU-wide protections against dangerous substances that cause cancer or reproductive harm.
- New exposure limits are proposed for specific chemicals including cobalt, isoprene, and 1,4-dioxane.
- A six-year transitional period is suggested for cobalt to allow industries time to adapt to stricter limits.
- The directive seeks to include risks from welding fumes and other similar processes in the scope of protection.
Documents (PDFs)
DRAFT REPORT on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2004/37/EC as regards the addition of substances and setting limit values in its Annexes I, III and IIIa
REPORT on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2004/37/EC as regards the addition of substances and setting limit values in its Annexes I, III and IIIa
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