The Carcinogens Directive (90/394/EEC)

The objective of this Council Directive is to protect workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens at work. The Directive lays down rules on how workers should be protected from carcinogens and mutagens and how exposure to these should be reduced.

The Directive deals with the determination and assessment of risks. The type of risk and the amount must be regularly assessed, with special attention paid to workers who are particularly at risk. All routes of exposure must be taken into account, including absorption into and/or through the skin.

The Directive lists the obligations of employers which include the reduction of the use of a carcinogen and replacement with a less dangerous substance where possible. The employer must take also provide Information for the competent authority concerning such matters as the reasons for using carcinogens, preventive measures taken and the number of workers exposed.

Employers must also provide workers with information about the dangers of exposure and provide adequate training on how to reduce the risks to exposure. They must also provide protective clothing and protective equipment and make sure exposure time is restricted to a minimum.