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Protecting workers through enforcement
EU Member States and EEA countries work together in an Enforcement Forum to make sure that companies comply with the EU chemicals legislation and help ensure worker safety. Inspectors may issue fines, warnings or written advice to companies that fail to meet their obligations.
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Protect yourself
As a worker, there is a lot you can and should do to protect yourself and others around you when handling dangerous chemicals. Make sure you follow the basic steps for staying safe.
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Where to find more on chemical safety at work
Knowing about the chemicals you work with is important in understanding how they can be used safely. A lot of information is available from trustworthy sources so make sure you use them.
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Who is responsible?
Employers, suppliers, authorities and Member States all have a role to play in making sure your workplace is safe from the dangers of harmful chemicals. Knowing what these responsibilities are and where to find more information, helps you to understand your rights as a worker.
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What about safer alternatives?
EU chemicals legislation promotes the replacement of the most hazardous chemicals with safer ones. You can also have an impact on using safer alternatives or if substitution is not possible, reducing your exposure to the harmful ones.
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Read the labels
Safety at work starts from knowing and understanding the labelling and safe use instructions of hazardous chemicals. By law, chemical suppliers have to classify their substances and mixtures. Learn the labels and stay safe!
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Nanomaterials at work
Nanomaterials are almost everywhere nowadays, but some workers are more exposed to them than others. If you are working with the tiny particles in one way or another, you might want to read this.
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Safety precautions and exposure
Safety data sheets and exposure scenarios help you to handle chemicals safely and protect yourself. Suppliers of hazardous chemicals used in the workplace need to provide this safety information and you can get it from your employer.