Update of EU Directive 2004/37/EC

In part through our campaigning, the ECHA have recognised the value of closed loop transfer systems in the safe handling of chemicals, and have therefore updated Directive 2004/37/EC to reflect this.

The specific paragraph in the Directive (page 32, paragraph 9) reads as follows:

(9 ) Specific measures should be put in place with regard to risk management, including specific health surveillance that should take into consideration the circumstances of individual workers. Under the general requirements of Directive 2004/37/EC, employers are obliged to ensure the substitution of the substance when technically possible, the use of closed systems, or the reduction of exposure to as low as technically possible.

We are delighted to see this subtle but vital strengthening of the wording used in the Directive to ensure workers and the environment are protected when handling dangerous substances.

To read the full Directive, please click on this link.