The existing Directive 2004/40/EC is essentially an appropriate means of protecting workers and also the best way to ensure a high level of protection for workers.<br /><br />The Federal Chamber of Labour is of the opinion that only binding measures are an appropriate means of guaranteeing health and safety in the workplace. It is our view that guidelines, information campaigns and training programs can provide support in the operational implementation of the provisions in the Directive, especially in the case of necessary evaluation of work areas. The commission should therefore offer such instruments in a way that is supportive and consistent for the member states.<br />