Commission proposes sixth revision of CMRD with new chemical exposure limits
The European Commission has proposed the sixth revision of the Carcinogens, Mutagens and Reprotoxic substances Directive (CMRD) to strengthen worker protection against hazardous chemicals. This proposal establishes new workplace exposure limits for cobalt and its inorganic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and 1,4-dioxane, with transitional limits allowing six years for adaptation. Additionally, welding fumes—containing carcinogenic substances such as chromium, nickel, and cadmium—have been included under the directive’s scope to clarify legal guidelines and enforce enhanced protective measures. Informed by the latest scientific evidence and consultations with the Advisory Committee on Safety and Health at Work, these measures are anticipated to prevent approximately 1,700 lung cancer cases and 19,000 additional illnesses, while saving up to €1.16bn in healthcare costs over the next 40 years. The proposal will now be discussed by the European Parliament and the Council, after which Member States will have two years to incorporate the directive into national law.