With the 4th proposed revision of the Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (COM 2020/571), the EU Commission intends to revise binding occupational exposure limits for acrylonitrile, benzene, as well as nickel and nickel compounds. However, from the point of view of the Chamber of Labour (AK), the proposed limit values would lead to unacceptable risks for workers’ health.

The AK is not only calling for the EU to introduce a system of risk-based limit values along the lines of German legislation in this field, but as well for the limit values to be revised downwards. In addition, in the future, the residual risk of cancer should also be indicated and the very long implemention periods should be shortened. There is also an urgent need to include dangerous drugs and substances that are reprotoxins within the scope of the Directive.