Reference source : European Parliament
Carcinogens Mutagens and Reprotoxic Substances Directive (CMRD) Occupational Exposure Limits(OELs) Cobalt Isoprene 1,4-Dioxane Carcinogen Occupational Safety Worker Protection
On 23 June 2026, negotiators from the European Parliament and the Council reached a provisional agreement on the sixth revision of the Carcinogens, Mutagens and Reprotoxic Substances Directive (CMRD), introducing new measures to strengthen protection for workers against exposure to hazardous chemicals.
The agreement establishes new occupational exposure limit values for cobalt and its inorganic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and 1,4-dioxane. These substances are used in sectors including battery production, steel and iron manufacturing, chemical production, and textiles.
The co-legislators also agreed to introduce a long-term occupational exposure limit for isoprene, a substance used in the chemical and rubber industries and classified as carcinogenic.
Additional Measures for Worker Protection
The provisional agreement also includes several broader occupational health and safety measures. The text clarifies provisions relating to personal protective equipment, including respiratory protective devices, and recognises workers' right to regular breaks in areas free from contamination risks.
In addition, the agreement highlights the importance of appropriate training for workers who are exposed, or are likely to be exposed, to hazardous medicinal products.
Specific attention is also given to firefighters and other emergency services personnel, who may be exposed to carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic substances in the course of their work. The agreement calls for additional protective measures and risk assessments for these professions.
Next Steps
The agreement must now undergo a legal-linguistic review before being formally adopted by both the European Parliament and the Council. The Parliament is expected to vote on the text during its October 2026 plenary session.