Workshops on the Control of Occupational Exposure to Carcinogenic Chemicals

European Directive (2004/37/EC) deals with protection of workers from exposure to carcinogens and mutagens at work. Article 5 of the Directive sets out the requirements for prevention or reduction of exposure, where the prime duty of employers is to replace carcinogens with substances that are not dangerous or less dangerous to workers' health and safety. If it is not possible to substitute then the employer must ensure that the carcinogen or mutagen is manufactured and used in a closed system. Where neither of these approaches is possible they must reduce the level of exposure to a minimum using specified strategies.

The IOM is assessing the impact of the requirements on the prevention and reduction of exposure with particular emphasis on the risk minimisation principle as stated in Article 5 of Directive 2004/37/EC on carcinogens and mutagens. This assessment will include the strengths and weaknesses of the requirements when they are implemented in the EU workplaces in terms of suitability, comprehensiveness and effectiveness in particular in the case where there is a need to further reduce exposure to a level below that introduced by an OEL.

We have organised four workshops to discuss the review and gather the views and opinions of occupational hygienists, health and safety practitioners, regulators and others.  These will be held in Edinburgh, London and as a online teleconferences. A PDF copy of the programme is available here

Each workshop will comprise an introductory presentation by Dr John Cherrie followed by a structured discussion. The discussion will be recorded as a contribution to the review.

There is no cost to participate.