New EU OSH strategic framework 2021-2027: Change, prevention and preparedness

On 28 June, the European Commission officially launched its new Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work. The goal? Keeping workers safe and healthy in a rapidly changing world of work. An important step for the Roadmap as well, as this will provide an additional boost for our joined efforts in reducing workers exposure to carcinogenic substances.

The strategic framework focuses on three key objectives for the coming years:

Anticipating and managing change in the new world of work
To ensure safe and healthy workplaces during the digital, green and demographic transitions, the Commission will review the Workplaces Directive and the Display Screen Equipment Directive and update protective limits on asbestos and lead. It will prepare an EU-level initiative related to mental health at work that assesses emerging issues related to workers’ mental health and puts forward guidance for action.
Improving prevention of work-related diseases and accidents
This strategic framework will promote a ‘vision zero’ approach to eliminate work-related deaths in the EU. The Commission will also update EU rules on hazardous chemicals to combat cancer, reproductive, and respiratory diseases.
Increasing preparedness for possible future health threats
Drawing lessons from the current pandemic, the Commission will develop emergency procedures and guidance for the rapid deployment, implementation and monitoring of measures in potential future health crises, in close cooperation with public-health actors.

More information on the strategic framework:

On Monday 5 July at 13:00 CEST, The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) is organising an online symposium to discuss the new EU Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work 2021-2027. Please visit Social Europe’s New Framework for Safer and Healthier Work to attend the event.