Noi limite pentru expunerea angajaților la substanțe cancerigene. Mii de îmbolnăviri ar putea fi prevenite

The European Parliament has approved new regulations to protect workers from hazardous substances, introducing exposure limits for various chemicals. These measures aim to prevent around 1,700 lung cancer cases and 19,000 other illnesses over the next 40 years. The updated directive focuses on carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reproductive toxic substances, setting stricter limits for cobalt, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and 1,4-dioxane, among others. Special attention is given to welding fumes, and employers are required to provide adequate protective equipment. The regulations also emphasize the rights of workers to regular breaks in safe areas. The directive, initially adopted in 2004, has undergone several revisions to align with the latest scientific data.