Home > The news of EUROGIP and occupational risks in Europe >
At an internal seminar in Brussels in mid-January, the EUROGIP team held discussions with key players in occupational health and safety (OHS) in Europe: Bozica Matic, from the European Parliament’s Employment and Social Affairs Committee (EMPL), and Ignacio Doreste from the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC). These discussions provided a better understanding of the legislative dynamics and future priorities in terms of the protection of European workers.
The work and priorities of the EMPL Committee
Bozica Matic explained the workings of the EMPL Committee and presented the texts adopted during the 9th parliamentary term (2019-2024) on OSH, in particular :
- the Resolution containing recommendations to the Commission on the protection of workers against asbestos (2021);
- Directive (EU) 2022/431 on carcinogens and mutagens (2022, 4th amendment) ;
- the Resolution on a new EU strategic framework for health and safety at work (2022) ;
- the Resolution on mental health in the digital world of work (2022)
- Directive (EU) 2023/2668 on asbestos at work (2023)
- Directive (EU) 2024/869 on chemical agents (CMRD/CAD, 2024).
The next legislative proposals concern
- revision of the directive on carcinogens, mutagens and agents toxic to reproduction (6th amendment, CMRD6);
- revision of the directives on workplaces and display screen equipment;
- screening and registration of asbestos in buildings;
- an initiative on teleworking and the right to disconnect.
Bozica also highlighted the importance of digitisation and artificial intelligence, with an initiative planned for 2025. Psychosocial risks, stress and mental health are also priorities, as are the impact of extreme temperatures and the conditions of domestic workers.
From the ETUC side
Following on from these discussions, Ignacio Doreste, Occupational Health and Safety Advisor, recalled the crucial role of the ETUC in the European legislative procedure and its collaboration with other key players in the sector. In terms of priorities, the Confederation is actively lobbying for the forthcoming adoption of European directives on :
- teleworking and the right to disconnect
- stress at work (see resolution)
- artificial intelligence
- the just transition to anticipate and manage climate change.
The Confederation also remains committed to other occupational risks. In the case of musculoskeletal disorders, it is recommending an update of the legislation rather than a new directive. Finally, the ETUC is working on a directive on algorithmic management, which would cover all sectors, not just digital platforms.
These highly rewarding exchanges have enabled EUROGIP to refine its understanding of European occupational health and safety issues.
