New legislative proposal to protect European workers from asbestos

On 28 September 2022, the European Commission adopts a communication and puts forward a legislative proposal on the protection of workers from the risks related to asbestos exposure at work, amending the Asbestos at Work Directive 2009/148/EC. It aims to update the existing binding occupational exposure limit value for asbestos, considering the latest scientific development and technical progress.

Asbestos is a highly dangerous cancer-causing agent and despite its EU ban in 2005, it continues to pose a considerable threat to public health and workers, especially in the construction, maintenance and waste sectors. An integrated approach across several policy areas, including occupational safety and health (OSH), is required to tackle its ill-fated legacy.

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