Votes · 6 October 2026
Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or reprotoxic substances at work
This vote is about protecting workers exposed to carcinogenic or toxic substances at work.
Background
The directive on carcinogens, mutagens and reprotoxic substances sets the maximum amount of these dangerous substances a worker may be exposed to. This is its sixth revision, negotiated with Member States. It concerns notably the battery, steel, chemical and textile industries, as well as welders and firefighters.
- Sets new exposure limits, notably for cobalt, certain hydrocarbons (PAHs) and 1,4-dioxane, and adds welding fumes to the list.
- Clarifies the rules on personal protective equipment.
- Should prevent some 1,700 lung cancers and 19,000 other illnesses over the next 40 years.
Adopted: 499 for, 49 against, 104 abstentions, 67 did not vote.
Reference: A10-0100/2026