Directive 2019/130: new European occupational exposure limit values

Directive 2019/130: what’s new?

On January 31^st 2019 the European Directive 2019/130 has been published. This directive updates Annex III Directive 2004/37/CE, containing the occupational exposure limit values by adding new entries. The five substances added to Directive 2019/130 are the following:

• Trichloroethylene (CAS: 79-01-6)
• 4,4′-Methylenedianiline (CAS: 101-77-9)
• Epichlorohydrine (CAS: 106-89-8)
• Ethylene dibromide (CAS: 106-93-4)
• Ethylene dichloride (CAS: 107-06-2)

Some exposure limit values indicated in this directive are not linked to single substances but they refer to a multiplicity of compounds with a specific composition, use or origin. The three generic groups that have been added are:

• Diesel engine exhaust emissions
• Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures, particularly those containing benzo[a]pyrene, which are carcinogens within the meaning of this Directive
• Mineral oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine

Directive 2019/130 came into force on February 20^th 2019, therefore member States have time until February 20^th 2021 to adopt this update. Concerning the entry into force of limit values of diesel motor emissions, the directive specifies that "The limit value shall apply from 21 February 2023. For underground mining and tunnel construction the limit value shall apply from 21 February 2026".

To read the full text of Directive 2019/130 follow the link:

• Directive 2019/130