EU tightens rules on workplace chemicals

BRUSSELS – The European Parliament has approved new workplace exposure limits for a range of chemicals including one linked to textile processing, as part of wider measures to protect workers from hazardous substances.

Belgian MEP Liesbet Sommen, who led Parliament’s work on the legislation, said: “Every year, around 120,000 workers in the EU are diagnosed with occupational cancer linked to exposure to carcinogens at work. This is a preventable tragedy that we cannot accept.”