23 Apr Public Consultation on Asbestos at Work
Public consultation on Directive (EU) 2023/2668: an update on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos at work
National legislation is currently being prepared in order to implement Directive (EU) 2023/2668. The objective of this public consultation is to seek the initial views of relevant stakeholders on the key provisions of the agreed Directive.
Background
Directive 2009/148/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council aims to protect workers against risks to their safety and health from exposure to asbestos at work. A consistent level of protection from the risks related to the occupational exposure to asbestos is provided for in that Directive by a framework of general principles to enable member states to ensure the consistent application of minimum requirements.
On 28 September 2022, the European Commission published a proposal to revise the legislation on asbestos exposure in the workplace as part of a package aimed at ensuring an asbestos-free future for EU citizens. The European Parliament Plenary voted in favour of the updated rules on 3 October 2023. The Directive was formally adopted on 22 November 2023.
Member states are required to transpose these provisions into national law by 21 December 2025, with specific technical requirements to be adopted by 2029.
Text of the Directive: Directive (EU) 2023/2668
The Directive on the protection from asbestos in the workplace will introduce new safety measures for workers exposed to asbestos during their work. The use of asbestos has been banned in the EU since 2005 but older buildings and infrastructure built prior to this may contain asbestos used for their strengthening and fireproofing protection.
This Directive represents a significant advancement in the EU’s commitment to worker health and safety. By setting more stringent exposure limits and strengthening preventive measures, the Directive aims to significantly reduce the risk of asbestos-related diseases among European workers.
Consultation process
Submissions
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment seeks the views of stakeholders and interested parties as the national legislation is currently being prepared in order to implement this Directive.
Respondents are requested to make their submissions by email to the Chemicals Policy Unit at chemicals@enterprise.gov.ie.
Submissions should be marked, “Response to public consultation on Directive (EU) 2023/2668 asbestos at work’.
The closing date for receipt of submissions is 5pm on 23 May 2025.
Please read the full article published by Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment for further details on this Directive, information on the Freedom of Information Act 2014 and Publication of Submissions, and GDPR: https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/consultations/public-consultation-on-directive-eu-2023-2668-an-update-on-the-protection-of-workers-from-the-risks-related-to-exposure-to-asbestos-at-work.html