The European Union is strengthening its Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) framework to provide better protection for workers exposed to hazardous chemical substances.

On 6 October 2026, the European Parliament approved the sixth revision of the Carcinogens, Mutagens and Reprotoxic Substances Directive (CMRD), introducing new occupational exposure limits and additional protective measures.

The changes primarily concern businesses operating in industrial and manufacturing sectors, where employees may be exposed to hazardous substances during their daily activities.

What does the revised EU framework introduce, which businesses are affected, and what should employers know?

What Is Changing Under the Revised EU Directive?

The sixth revision of the CMRD updates the European framework for protecting workers against substances that may cause cancer, genetic mutations or adverse effects on reproductive health.

The revised framework includes:

• New occupational exposure limits for specific hazardous chemical substances.
• Enhanced preventive and protective measures for workers exposed to dangerous agents.
• Clearer requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including respiratory protection.
• Additional provisions concerning welding fumes that may contain hazardous substances.
• Transitional periods for certain exposure limits, allowing affected industries time to adapt.

The objective is to reduce occupational health risks and strengthen worker protection across the European Union.

Which Hazardous Substances Are Covered by the New EU Exposure Limits?

The revision focuses on substances used or generated during industrial and manufacturing processes.

Cobalt and Inorganic Cobalt Compounds

Cobalt is used in battery manufacturing and various industrial applications.

The revised Directive introduces occupational exposure limits intended to improve protection for workers exposed to cobalt and its inorganic compounds.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons may be generated during industrial processes, including iron, steel and aluminium production.

The revised framework introduces exposure limits and transitional arrangements for certain industrial activities.

1,4-Dioxane

1,4-Dioxane is a chemical substance associated with certain industrial applications, including chemical manufacturing and textile production.

The revision introduces occupational exposure limits to help reduce health risks associated with workplace exposure.

Isoprene

Isoprene is primarily used in the chemical industry and the production of synthetic rubber.

The revised Directive establishes an occupational exposure limit for this substance.

Welding Fumes

Welding processes can generate fumes containing hazardous substances.

The revised framework addresses worker exposure to welding fumes where they contain carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic agents.

Which Businesses and Industries Will Be Affected?

The new requirements are particularly relevant to businesses where hazardous substances are used, processed or generated during workplace activities.

Potentially affected industries include:

• Battery manufacturing and metallurgy.
• Steel and aluminium production.
• Chemical manufacturing and textile production.
• Rubber manufacturing.
• Coal and graphite production.
• Welding and metalworking activities involving hazardous substances.

However, not every business within these industries will be affected in the same way.

The applicable requirements depend on the specific substances involved, the nature of workplace activities and the level of employee exposure.

What Does the Revised Directive Require for Worker Protection?

In addition to occupational exposure limits, the revised framework places greater emphasis on preventive measures and the appropriate use of protective equipment.

Key areas include:

Occupational Exposure Assessment

Employers need to identify hazardous substances present in the workplace and assess potential exposure risks for their employees.

Preventive and Protective Measures

Businesses must implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to reduce workplace exposure, in accordance with applicable occupational safety and health requirements.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The revision clarifies certain requirements concerning protective equipment, particularly respiratory protection. It also includes provisions concerning regular breaks in contamination-free areas when specific protective equipment is required, subject to the applicable conditions.

Worker Information and Training

Employees must receive appropriate information and training on workplace hazards, exposure risks and relevant safety procedures.

These measures form part of a broader approach to preventing occupational diseases and maintaining safe working conditions.

When Will the New Occupational Exposure Limits Apply in Greece?

The European Parliament's approval on 6 October 2026 represents an important step in the EU legislative process.

However, the approval does not mean that all new occupational exposure limits are already applicable to businesses in Greece.

The revised Directive must complete the relevant legislative procedures, enter into force and be transposed into national law.

The agreed framework provides for a two-year transposition period following the Directive's entry into force.

Longer transitional periods are also предусмотрены for certain occupational exposure limits.

Until the new requirements become applicable, businesses must continue to comply with existing Greek occupational safety and health legislation.

What Should Employers Do to Prepare?

Businesses that use or generate hazardous chemical substances should assess whether the revised EU framework may affect their operations.

Depending on their activities, employers should consider:

• Identifying substances covered by the revised Directive.
• Reviewing existing occupational risk assessments.
• Evaluating current technical and organisational protective measures.
• Checking whether appropriate Personal Protective Equipment is provided and used correctly.
• Ensuring workers receive relevant safety information and training.
• Monitoring the publication and implementation of the new EU requirements.

Early preparation can help businesses manage occupational risks more effectively and avoid difficulties when the new requirements become applicable.

Occupational Safety and Health: An Ongoing Employer Responsibility

Protecting workers from hazardous substances is not simply a matter of regulatory compliance.

It is an essential part of preventing occupational diseases, maintaining safe working conditions and supporting responsible business operations.

The sixth revision of the CMRD strengthens the European framework for worker protection and highlights the importance of regularly reviewing occupational risks.

For businesses operating in industrial and manufacturing sectors, staying informed about these developments is an important part of long-term compliance planning.

How AFS Can Support You?

Keeping up with legislative developments and managing employer obligations are essential aspects of effective business operations.

AFS – Athens Financial Services provides comprehensive business support through its Payroll & HR, advisory and regulatory compliance services,helping companies stay organised and informed about their responsibilities.

Need guidance on employer obligations and your company's regulatory compliance requirements?

The AFS team is available to discuss your business needs and provide professional support.

Contact us:

• Phone: 210 8317702
• Email: info@afs.gr

Alternatively, complete the contact form below, and a member of the AFS team will get in touch with you to discuss your business needs.