MEPs Adopt More Robust Asbestos Exposure Laws

28 Sep 2023

At OHSS, we bring you articles like this one to educate and highlight the ongoing threat presented by asbestos exposure. Today, we offer news from the EU that will result in workers being better protected from ACMs than ever before. New requirements have been adopted by MEPs to reduce the allowable limit of exposure to a tenth of its previous level. 

With a majority of 614 votes in favour to 2 against, a directive agreed with member states will see the permitted level drop, with calls also being made for the use of more accurate technology allowing for the detection of thin asbestos fibres. 

A Maximum Six-Year Transition Period 

This law aims to reduce occupation exposure limits (OELs) for asbestos from its current level of 0.1 fibres per cubic cm to 0.01 with no transition period. Member states, however, will have a maximum period of six years to switch to electron microscopy (a more modern & sensitive technology to better detect fibre). 

Employees will need to be protected more robustly according to the new rules, such as wearing respiratory and other protective equipment that needs to be cleaned safely. High-quality training and decontamination procedures must also be enforced. 

Dragoş Pîslaru, Chair of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, had this to say on the newly adopted laws:

"We have come one step closer to an asbestos-free future. Today's adoption is part of Veronique Trillet-Lenoir's great legacy, who fought relentlessly for the health of European citizens. These new rules on asbestos drastically reduce the level of asbestos that workers are exposed to, protecting them from the dangerous carcinogen. 

But, as there is no safe level of exposure to asbestos, the new rules also shield workers by providing them with protective clothes and respiratory equipment, protecting those on the frontline of the buildings renovation wave."

OHSS - Here to Help Your Workers Stay Safe

At OHSS, we’ve been helping to keep Irish workers safe from the dangers of asbestos since 2001. This  places us very well to give you the important advice you need. To find out more about our full range of asbestos-related and occupational hygiene services, that includes awareness and safety & awareness training, visit us today at www.ohss.ie. 

Alternatively, to talk with one of our friendly experts, give us a call on 01 6905907 and we’ll do our utmost to give you the assistance you need.

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