BETA


1992/0449A(COD) Safety and health at work: exposure of workers to noise

Progress: Procedure completed

RoleCommitteeRapporteurShadows
Lead DELE THORNING-SCHMIDT Helle (icon: PES PES)
Former Responsible Committee EMPL THORNING-SCHMIDT Helle (icon: PES PES)
Lead committee dossier:
Legal Basis:
EC Treaty (after Amsterdam) EC 137-p2

Events

2017/01/12
   EC - Follow-up document
Details

The Commission presented a working document accompanying the Commission communication to the European Parliament, the Council, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the modernisation of the EU occupational safety and health legislation and policy.

The detailed ex-post evaluation of the EU acquis, checking their relevance as well as efficiency, effectiveness, coherence and EU added value, carried out by the Commission confirms that the framework meets its ambition to adequately protect workers.

Main conclusions : the evaluation concluded that the overall structure of the EU occupational safety and health acquis, consisting of a goal-oriented Framework Directive complemented by specific Directives, is generally effective and fit-for-purpose.

However, it pointed to specific provisions of individual Directives that have become outdated or obsolete , and highlighted the need to find effective ways to address new risks .

The way in which Member States have transposed the EU occupational safety and health Directives varies considerably across Member States. Compliance costs therefore vary and cannot be easily dissociated from more detailed national requirements.

As regards SMEs : the evaluation clearly concluded that compliance with the occupational safety and health Directives is more challenging for SMEs than large establishments, while at the same time the major and fatal injury rates are higher for SMEs . Specific support measures are therefore necessary to reach SMEs and help them increase their compliance in an efficient and effective way.

Next steps : the evaluation considered that occupational safety and health measures should reach the widest number of people at work, no matter the type of working relationship they are in, and no matter the size of company they work for . Compliance with occupational safety and health rules should be manageable for businesses of all sizes and effectively monitored on the ground.

Measures must be result-oriented, instead of paper-driven, and maximum use should be made of new digital tools to facilitate implementation.

Characteristics of the evaluation : this exercise also forms part of the Commission's Regulatory Fitness (REFIT) Programme with a special focus on SMEs. In this respect, the evaluation concentrated both on Framework Directive 89/391/EEC and on the other 23 directives related to it.

The evaluation also concerned Directive 2003/10/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risk arising from physical agents (noise).

The main objective of the Directive is to prevent workers from impairing/losing their hearing, as well as any condition which might arise from exposure to noise, for example permanent ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

The Directive is generally relevant in its current form. It has not identified a need for major amendments of the Directive, for example concerning exposure limit values.

However, in order to enhance relevance of the Directive, the evaluation study recommended:

ensuring a better implementation of existing requirements in the Directive through awareness raising activities and strengthened inspection and guidance regimes; a dialogue with the Member States and the social partners on how to achieve a better implementation of the Directive in music and entertainment sectors; a review and streamline of worker information requirements under the physical agents directives and the review of the health surveillance provisions, to ensure consistency across the four physical agents directives; adoption of measures to ensure that the procedure of adoption/amendment of limit values and action values is clarified and harmonised with the other physical agents Directives.

2003/02/15
   Final act published in Official Journal
Details

PURPOSE: to lay down minimum requirements for the protection of workers from risks arising from exposure to noise.

LEGISLATIVE ACT: Directive 2003/10/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (noise). Seventeenth individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16(1) of Directive 89/391/EEC.

CONTENT: this Directive supplements Council Directive 89/391/EEC of 12 June 1989 intended to encourage improvements in health and safety at work and applies more specifically to the exposure of workers to noise.

As a reminder, this Directive is the second stage in a process started in 1992 with the presentation by the Commission of a proposal for a Directive on the exposure of workers to physical agents which included the exposure of workers to four types of agent: noise, mechanical vibration, electromagnetic fields and optical radiation. However, this proposal was abandoned in favour of a text covering each of the agents in question.

Scope and aim of the Directive:

The Directive lays down minimum requirements and leaves Member States the option of maintaining or adopting more favourable provisions in this area. It aims to reorganise the measures already laid down by Directive 86/188/EEC on the protection of workers exposed to noise at work, while taking into account progress made in scientific knowledge and technology since its adoption. However, as current scientific knowledge is not sufficient to enable precise exposure levels to be set, the Directive is limited to defining the objectives to be attained to ensure the application of a minimum level for the exposure of workers to noise.

In this context, the Directive establishes three types of noise exposure limit value determined according to physical parameters which are peak sound pressure (maximum value of the instantaneous noise pressure), daily noise exposure level and weekly noise exposure level. These exposure limit values are:

- daily noise exposure level: fixed at 87 decibels (dB) with a peak sound pressure of 200 Pa;

- action values: fixed respectively at 80 dB for the lower value (and peak sound pressure limited to 112 Pa) and 85 dB for the upper value (and peak sound pressure limited to 140 Pa, as requested by the European Parliament). These two values must be regarded as the values beyond which employers must take the measures specified in the Directive. The exposure limit value cannot, however, be exceeded and must be determined taking into account any noise attenuation measures such as individual hearing protectors worn by workers.

Derogations from these measures are provided for, but the limit of 87 dB may not be exceeded.

Obligations of employers: the Directive specifies six types of obligation:

1) Determination and assessment of risks: the employer shall assess and, if necessary, measure the levels of noise to which workers are exposed. When carrying out this assessment and given the measures already laid down by Directive 89/391/EEC, the employer shall give particular attention to a series of parameters which include the level, type and duration of exposure, the exposure limit values and exposure action values, the exposure of workers belonging to specific risk groups, any interactions between noise and vibration, the existence of alternative work equipment designed to reduce noise emission, the extension of exposure to noise beyond normal working hours, information on health surveillance and the availability of hearing protectors. Once in possession of this assessment, the employer shall take a series of measures laid down by the Directive and record the results in a suitable medium to allow consultation at a later date;

2) Reduction of risks: every effort must be made to minimise or eliminate the risk of exposure to noise at source. In addition to the measures already laid down in the Framework Directive, provision is made for a programme of technical and/or organisational measures to be established in order to reduce the exposure to noise (choice of appropriate work equipment; design and layout of workplaces; information and training of workers; use of technical measures to reduce noise; improved organisation of work). These measures shall apply in particular if the limit of 85 dB is exceeded (in particular, signage and restriction of access to exposed workplaces);

3) Personal protection: as requested by the European Parliament, if other means cannot prevent the risks, individual hearing protectors shall be made available to workers when the noise exceeds 85 dB;

4) Limitation of exposure: if, despite the measures taken to implement the Directive, the 87 dB limit is exceeded, the employer shall take immediate action to reduce the exposure and to amend the specified measures;

5) Worker information and training: the employer shall ensure that workers who are exposed to noise at or above 80 dB and/or their representatives receive appropriate information and training on exposure to noise and, in particular, the nature of such risks, the measures taken to eliminate these, the existence of exposure limit values and exposure action values, the correct use of hearing protectors, how to detect signs of hearing damage, etc.;

6) Consultation and participation of workers: workers and/or their representatives shall be consulted on the assessment of risks and the measures to be taken. They shall also be consulted on the choice of individual hearing protectors.

Health surveillance: in addition to these six general obligations, the Directive provides for specific measures on the health surveillance of workers in order to preserve their hearing. As requested by the European Parliament, when noise levels exceed 85 dB, workers shall have the right to have their hearing checked and, if the exposure level exceeds 80 dB, they shall have the right to a preventive audiometric test. These tests are intended to provide early diagnosis of any loss of hearing and to preserve the hearing of workers. The latter may benefit from individual health records which they may consult at a later date.

Provisions are laid down in order to define the arrangements for this audiometric testing. The worker shall be informed of the test result and, if excessive exposure is detected, measures shall be taken to eliminate or reduce the risks (e.g.: assigning the worker to alternative work).

Derogations: in exceptional situations where the use of individual hearing protectors would be likely to cause greater risk to the worker’s health or safety than not using these, Member States may derogate from the individual protection obligation. These derogations shall be reviewed every four years.

In the music and entertainment sectors, Member States shall be entitled to make use of a transitional period of two years to draw up a code of conduct allowing workers and employers in these sectors to comply with the Directive.

Every five years Member States shall provide a report to the Commission on the implementation of the Directive. On the basis of these reports, the Commission shall carry out an overall assessment. Technical amendments may also be made to the Directive in line with technical progress or new findings concerning noise.

ENTRY INTO FORCE: 15/02/2003. Directive 86/188/EEC is repealed.

TRANSPOSITION IN THE MEMBER STATES: 15/02/2006 except for the music and entertainment sectors (15/02/2008) and for personnel on board seagoing vessels (15/02/2011).

2003/02/06
   CSL - Final act signed
2003/02/06
   EP - End of procedure in Parliament
2002/12/09
   CSL - Decision by Council, 3rd reading
2002/12/09
   CSL - Council Meeting
2002/12/05
   EP - Text adopted by Parliament, 3rd reading
2002/12/05
   EP - Decision by Parliament, 3rd reading
Documents
2002/12/04
   EP - Debate in Parliament
2002/11/08
   CSL/EP - Joint text approved by Conciliation Committee co-chairs
Documents
2002/11/07
   EP/CSL - Joint text approved by Conciliation Committee co-chairs
Documents
2002/11/05
   CSL - Council Meeting
2002/10/23
   EP/CSL - Final decision by Conciliation Committee
2002/10/22
   EP - Report tabled for plenary by Parliament delegation to Conciliation Committee, 3rd reading
Documents
2002/10/21
   EP - Report tabled for plenary, 3rd reading
Documents
2002/09/12
   EP/CSL - Formal meeting of Conciliation Committee
2002/08/02
   CSL - Parliament's amendments rejected by Council
2002/05/03
   EC - Commission opinion on Parliament's position at 2nd reading
2002/03/20
   EP - THORNING-SCHMIDT Helle (PES) appointed as rapporteur in DELE
2002/03/13
   EP - Text adopted by Parliament, 2nd reading
Details

The European Parliament adopted a resolution drafted by Helle THORNING-SCHMIDT (PES, DK) and made several amendments to the common position. The principal ones are as follows:

-Parliament sought to align the peak pressure level of the upper exposure action level with the original Commission proposal thus providing for some leeway between the upper action level and the exposure limit value;

-the text now clearly states that the effective exposure of worker is determinant for applying the exposure limit values;

-the risk assessment must take account of hearing protectors;

-the wearing of hearing protectors is mandatory as soon as the upper exposure action value is exactly matched;

-Parliament specified matters for consultation of workers;

-workers exposed above the lower exposure limit value are entitled to a simplified audiometric testing, thus reinforcing the prevention aspects of the directive through the possibility of early detection of hearing loss;

-the Commission report on the implementation of the directive shall be based also on new knowledge and research and shall include the result of an overall assessment of the implementation;

-the text clarifies the obligations of employers on information and training on hearing protectors;

-the Bilbao Agency should encourage exchange of good practices;

-Parliament specified an exemption for music and entertainments sectors.

2002/03/13
   EP - Decision by Parliament, 2nd reading
Details

The European Parliament adopted a resolution drafted by Helle THORNING-SCHMIDT (PES, DK) and made several amendments to the common position. The principal ones are as follows:

-Parliament sought to align the peak pressure level of the upper exposure action level with the original Commission proposal thus providing for some leeway between the upper action level and the exposure limit value;

-the text now clearly states that the effective exposure of worker is determinant for applying the exposure limit values;

-the risk assessment must take account of hearing protectors;

-the wearing of hearing protectors is mandatory as soon as the upper exposure action value is exactly matched;

-Parliament specified matters for consultation of workers;

-workers exposed above the lower exposure limit value are entitled to a simplified audiometric testing, thus reinforcing the prevention aspects of the directive through the possibility of early detection of hearing loss;

-the Commission report on the implementation of the directive shall be based also on new knowledge and research and shall include the result of an overall assessment of the implementation;

-the text clarifies the obligations of employers on information and training on hearing protectors;

-the Bilbao Agency should encourage exchange of good practices;

-Parliament specified an exemption for music and entertainments sectors.

Documents
2002/03/12
   EP - Debate in Parliament
2002/02/19
   EP - Committee recommendation tabled for plenary, 2nd reading
Documents
2002/02/19
   EP - Vote in committee, 2nd reading
2002/02/18
   EP - Committee recommendation tabled for plenary, 2nd reading
Documents
2001/11/15
   EP - Committee referral announced in Parliament, 2nd reading
2001/11/08
   EC - Commission communication on Council's position
2001/10/29
   CSL - Council position
2001/10/29
   CSL - Council Meeting
2001/10/28
   CSL - Council position published
Documents
1999/09/16
   EP - Text adopted by Parliament confirming position adopted at 1st reading
1999/09/16
   EP - Decision by Parliament, 1st reading
Documents
1999/09/01
   EP - Committee final report tabled for plenary, 1st reading/single reading
1999/09/01
   EP - Vote in committee, 1st reading
1999/08/31
   EP - Committee report tabled for plenary confirming Parliament's position
Documents
1999/07/26
   EP - THORNING-SCHMIDT Helle (PES) appointed as rapporteur in EMPL
1999/04/28
   EC - Reconsultation
1994/07/08
   EC - Modified legislative proposal
Details

The Commission submits to the Council an amended proposal. There are two main types of amendments:

-one group of amendments provides useful additional detail and clarification of the initial proposal;

-a second group of amendments strengthen the proposal by enhancing the protection offered to the health and safety of workers.

The Commission’s amended proposal retains the general structure and objectives of the initial proposal but extends and expands on certain provisions. Of the 41 amendments adopted by Parliament, 31 have been accepted, 4 of these in part.

Six amendments have been rejected because they sought to exclude audible acoustic fields (Annex 1) from the scope of the proposal. The Commission has not accepted these amendments because they are contrary to the Commission’s obligations under Article 10 of Directive 86/188/EEC and under the European Parliament resolution of 13 September 1990 which requires the Commission to put forward a proposal on a directive on the basis of Article 118A of the Treaty with regard to the risks arising from noise and vibration and other physical agents.

The Commission has also refused an amendment which imposes upon it an obligation already fulfilled by the Commission in producing its annual report on the implementation of Community legislation.

Three amendments could not be accepted because their extremely binding nature would impose additional costs on employers yet not contribute to enhancing the health and safety of workers.

1994/07/07
   EC - Modified legislative proposal published
Details

The Commission submits to the Council an amended proposal. There are two main types of amendments:

-one group of amendments provides useful additional detail and clarification of the initial proposal;

-a second group of amendments strengthen the proposal by enhancing the protection offered to the health and safety of workers.

The Commission’s amended proposal retains the general structure and objectives of the initial proposal but extends and expands on certain provisions. Of the 41 amendments adopted by Parliament, 31 have been accepted, 4 of these in part.

Six amendments have been rejected because they sought to exclude audible acoustic fields (Annex 1) from the scope of the proposal. The Commission has not accepted these amendments because they are contrary to the Commission’s obligations under Article 10 of Directive 86/188/EEC and under the European Parliament resolution of 13 September 1990 which requires the Commission to put forward a proposal on a directive on the basis of Article 118A of the Treaty with regard to the risks arising from noise and vibration and other physical agents.

The Commission has also refused an amendment which imposes upon it an obligation already fulfilled by the Commission in producing its annual report on the implementation of Community legislation.

Three amendments could not be accepted because their extremely binding nature would impose additional costs on employers yet not contribute to enhancing the health and safety of workers.

1994/04/20
   EP - Text adopted by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading
1994/04/20
   EP - Decision by Parliament, 1st reading
Documents
1994/04/19
   EP - Debate in Parliament
1994/03/29
   EP - Committee report tabled for plenary, 1st reading/single reading
1994/03/29
   EP - Vote in committee, 1st reading
1994/03/28
   EP - Committee report tabled for plenary, 1st reading
Documents
1993/06/30
   ESC - Economic and Social Committee: opinion, report
1993/04/19
   EP - Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading
1992/12/23
   EC - Legislative proposal
Details

PURPOSE : proposal to protect workers from the risks of exposure to physical agents.

PROPOSED ACT : Council Directive.

CONTENT : The proposal aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety, including the prevention of such risks, arising or likely to arise from exposure to physical agents. It lays down particular minimum requirements in this area.

The physical agents are defined as:

-audible acoustic fields;

-vibrations;

-electric or magnetic fields or combinations of these with a frequency equal to or less than 3,10(15) Hertz (wavelength of 100 nanometres or more.)

The directive will apply to activities where workers are likely to be exposed to these physical agents as a result of their work. The employer must then carry out an assessment of the risks resulting from exposure. Under the conditions laid down in the relevant Annexes, certain activities must be considered as presenting an increased risk and must be declared to the authority responsible. Each physical agent must be assessed, and where necessary, measured. The risk arising from exposure must be reduced to the lowest achievable level, with the aim of reducing exposure to below the threshold level referred to in the relevant Annex.

The proposal proceeds on the basis that minimum requirements in the field must establish the general principles of protection and the objectives to be achieved, whilst leaving open the detailed rules translating the safety levels in operational terms, to be adopted in order to comply with the provisions of the Directive.

The proposal makes provisions on personal protection, as well as worker information and training, consultation and participation of workers.

1992/12/22
   EC - Legislative proposal published
Details

PURPOSE : proposal to protect workers from the risks of exposure to physical agents.

PROPOSED ACT : Council Directive.

CONTENT : The proposal aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety, including the prevention of such risks, arising or likely to arise from exposure to physical agents. It lays down particular minimum requirements in this area.

The physical agents are defined as:

-audible acoustic fields;

-vibrations;

-electric or magnetic fields or combinations of these with a frequency equal to or less than 3,10(15) Hertz (wavelength of 100 nanometres or more.)

The directive will apply to activities where workers are likely to be exposed to these physical agents as a result of their work. The employer must then carry out an assessment of the risks resulting from exposure. Under the conditions laid down in the relevant Annexes, certain activities must be considered as presenting an increased risk and must be declared to the authority responsible. Each physical agent must be assessed, and where necessary, measured. The risk arising from exposure must be reduced to the lowest achievable level, with the aim of reducing exposure to below the threshold level referred to in the relevant Annex.

The proposal proceeds on the basis that minimum requirements in the field must establish the general principles of protection and the objectives to be achieved, whilst leaving open the detailed rules translating the safety levels in operational terms, to be adopted in order to comply with the provisions of the Directive.

The proposal makes provisions on personal protection, as well as worker information and training, consultation and participation of workers.

Documents

History

(these mark the time of scraping, not the official date of the change)

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committees
  • type: Responsible Committee body: EP associated: False committee_full: EP Delegation to Conciliation Committee committee: DELE date: 2002-03-20T00:00:00 rapporteur: name: THORNING-SCHMIDT Helle group: Party of European Socialists abbr: PES
  • type: Former Responsible Committee body: EP associated: False committee_full: Employment and Social Affairs committee: EMPL date: 1999-07-26T00:00:00 rapporteur: name: THORNING-SCHMIDT Helle group: Party of European Socialists abbr: PES
council
  • body: CSL type: Council Meeting council: Environment meeting_id: 2473 url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=SMPL&ROWSPP=25&RESULTSET=1&NRROWS=500&DOC_LANCD=EN&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC&CONTENTS=2473*&MEET_DATE=09/12/2002 date: 2002-12-09T00:00:00
  • body: CSL type: Council Meeting council: Economic and Financial Affairs ECOFIN meeting_id: 2460 url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=SMPL&ROWSPP=25&RESULTSET=1&NRROWS=500&DOC_LANCD=EN&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC&CONTENTS=2460*&MEET_DATE=05/11/2002 date: 2002-11-05T00:00:00
  • body: CSL type: Council Meeting council: Environment meeting_id: 2378 url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=SMPL&ROWSPP=25&RESULTSET=1&NRROWS=500&DOC_LANCD=EN&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC&CONTENTS=2378*&MEET_DATE=29/10/2001 date: 2001-10-29T00:00:00
docs
  • date: 1992-12-23T00:00:00 docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/smartapi/cgi/sga_doc?smartapi!celexplus!prod!DocNumber&lg=EN&type_doc=COMfinal&an_doc=1992&nu_doc=560 title: EUR-Lex url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:C:1993:077:TOC title: OJ C 077 18.03.1993, p. 0012 title: COM(1992)0560 summary: PURPOSE : proposal to protect workers from the risks of exposure to physical agents. PROPOSED ACT : Council Directive. CONTENT : The proposal aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety, including the prevention of such risks, arising or likely to arise from exposure to physical agents. It lays down particular minimum requirements in this area. The physical agents are defined as: -audible acoustic fields; -vibrations; -electric or magnetic fields or combinations of these with a frequency equal to or less than 3,10(15) Hertz (wavelength of 100 nanometres or more.) The directive will apply to activities where workers are likely to be exposed to these physical agents as a result of their work. The employer must then carry out an assessment of the risks resulting from exposure. Under the conditions laid down in the relevant Annexes, certain activities must be considered as presenting an increased risk and must be declared to the authority responsible. Each physical agent must be assessed, and where necessary, measured. The risk arising from exposure must be reduced to the lowest achievable level, with the aim of reducing exposure to below the threshold level referred to in the relevant Annex. The proposal proceeds on the basis that minimum requirements in the field must establish the general principles of protection and the objectives to be achieved, whilst leaving open the detailed rules translating the safety levels in operational terms, to be adopted in order to comply with the provisions of the Directive. The proposal makes provisions on personal protection, as well as worker information and training, consultation and participation of workers. type: Legislative proposal body: EC
  • date: 1993-06-30T00:00:00 docs: url: https://dm.eesc.europa.eu/EESCDocumentSearch/Pages/redresults.aspx?k=(documenttype:AC)(documentnumber:0716)(documentyear:1993)(documentlanguage:EN) title: CES0716/1993 url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/JOHtml.do?uri=OJ:C:1993:249:SOM:EN:HTML title: OJ C 249 13.09.1993, p. 0028 summary: type: Economic and Social Committee: opinion, report body: ESC
  • date: 1994-03-29T00:00:00 docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:C:1994:128:TOC title: OJ C 128 09.05.1994, p. 0009 title: A3-0192/1994 type: Committee report tabled for plenary, 1st reading/single reading body: EP
  • date: 1994-04-20T00:00:00 docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:C:1994:128:TOC title: OJ C 128 09.05.1994, p. 0128-0146 title: T3-0239/1994 summary: type: Text adopted by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading body: EP
  • date: 1994-05-05T00:00:00 docs: title: PE207.415 type: Committee draft report body: EP
  • date: 1994-07-08T00:00:00 docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/smartapi/cgi/sga_doc?smartapi!celexplus!prod!DocNumber&lg=EN&type_doc=COMfinal&an_doc=1994&nu_doc=284 title: EUR-Lex url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:C:1994:230:TOC title: OJ C 230 19.08.1994, p. 0003 title: COM(1994)0284 summary: The Commission submits to the Council an amended proposal. There are two main types of amendments: -one group of amendments provides useful additional detail and clarification of the initial proposal; -a second group of amendments strengthen the proposal by enhancing the protection offered to the health and safety of workers. The Commission’s amended proposal retains the general structure and objectives of the initial proposal but extends and expands on certain provisions. Of the 41 amendments adopted by Parliament, 31 have been accepted, 4 of these in part. Six amendments have been rejected because they sought to exclude audible acoustic fields (Annex 1) from the scope of the proposal. The Commission has not accepted these amendments because they are contrary to the Commission’s obligations under Article 10 of Directive 86/188/EEC and under the European Parliament resolution of 13 September 1990 which requires the Commission to put forward a proposal on a directive on the basis of Article 118A of the Treaty with regard to the risks arising from noise and vibration and other physical agents. The Commission has also refused an amendment which imposes upon it an obligation already fulfilled by the Commission in producing its annual report on the implementation of Community legislation. Three amendments could not be accepted because their extremely binding nature would impose additional costs on employers yet not contribute to enhancing the health and safety of workers. type: Modified legislative proposal body: EC
  • date: 1999-04-28T00:00:00 docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/smartapi/cgi/sga_doc?smartapi!celexplus!prod!DocNumber&lg=EN&type_doc=SECfinal&an_doc=1999&nu_doc=581 title: EUR-Lex title: SEC(1999)0581 type: Reconsultation body: EC
  • date: 1999-08-19T00:00:00 docs: title: PE231.523 type: Committee draft report body: EP
  • date: 1999-09-01T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A5-1999-6&language=EN title: A5-0006/1999 url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:C:2000:054:TOC title: OJ C 054 25.02.2000, p. 0010 type: Committee final report tabled for plenary, 1st reading/single reading body: EP
  • date: 1999-09-16T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P5-TA-1999-12 title: T5-0012/1999 url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:C:2000:054:TOC title: OJ C 054 25.02.2000, p. 0055-0075 summary: type: Text adopted by Parliament confirming position adopted at 1st reading body: EP
  • date: 2001-10-29T00:00:00 docs: url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=ADV&RESULTSET=1&DOC_ID=10479%2F01&DOC_LANCD=EN&ROWSPP=25&NRROWS=500&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC title: 10479/1/2001 title: OJ C 045 19.02.2002, p. 0041 E summary: type: Council position body: CSL
  • date: 2001-11-08T00:00:00 docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/smartapi/cgi/sga_doc?smartapi!celexplus!prod!DocNumber&lg=EN&type_doc=SECfinal&an_doc=2001&nu_doc=1724 title: EUR-Lex title: SEC(2001)1724 summary: type: Commission communication on Council's position body: EC
  • date: 2001-12-21T00:00:00 docs: title: PE305.762 type: Committee draft report body: EP
  • date: 2002-02-19T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A5-2002-38&language=EN title: A5-0038/2002 type: Committee recommendation tabled for plenary, 2nd reading body: EP
  • date: 2002-03-13T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P5-TA-2002-102 title: T5-0102/2002 title: OJ C 047 27.02.2003, p. 0087-0227 E summary: The European Parliament adopted a resolution drafted by Helle THORNING-SCHMIDT (PES, DK) and made several amendments to the common position. The principal ones are as follows: -Parliament sought to align the peak pressure level of the upper exposure action level with the original Commission proposal thus providing for some leeway between the upper action level and the exposure limit value; -the text now clearly states that the effective exposure of worker is determinant for applying the exposure limit values; -the risk assessment must take account of hearing protectors; -the wearing of hearing protectors is mandatory as soon as the upper exposure action value is exactly matched; -Parliament specified matters for consultation of workers; -workers exposed above the lower exposure limit value are entitled to a simplified audiometric testing, thus reinforcing the prevention aspects of the directive through the possibility of early detection of hearing loss; -the Commission report on the implementation of the directive shall be based also on new knowledge and research and shall include the result of an overall assessment of the implementation; -the text clarifies the obligations of employers on information and training on hearing protectors; -the Bilbao Agency should encourage exchange of good practices; -Parliament specified an exemption for music and entertainments sectors. type: Text adopted by Parliament, 2nd reading body: EP
  • date: 2002-05-03T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/docs_autres_institutions/commission_europeenne/com/2002/0229/COM_COM(2002)0229_EN.pdf title: COM(2002)0229 url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/smartapi/cgi/sga_doc?smartapi!celexplus!prod!DocNumber&lg=EN&type_doc=COMfinal&an_doc=2002&nu_doc=229 title: EUR-Lex summary: type: Commission opinion on Parliament's position at 2nd reading body: EC
  • date: 2002-10-22T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A5-2002-401&language=EN title: A5-0401/2002 type: Report tabled for plenary by Parliament delegation to Conciliation Committee, 3rd reading body: EP
  • date: 2002-11-08T00:00:00 docs: url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=ADV&RESULTSET=1&DOC_ID=3666%2F02&DOC_LANCD=EN&ROWSPP=25&NRROWS=500&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC title: 3666/2002 type: Joint text approved by Conciliation Committee co-chairs body: CSL/EP
  • date: 2002-11-26T00:00:00 docs: title: PE287.618 type: Committee draft report body: EP
  • date: 2002-12-05T00:00:00 docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P5-TA-2002-585 title: T5-0585/2002 title: OJ C 027 30.01.2004, p. 0025-0111 E summary: type: Text adopted by Parliament, 3rd reading body: EP
  • date: 2017-01-12T00:00:00 docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=SWD:2017:0010:FIN:EN:PDF title: EUR-Lex title: SWD(2017)0010 summary: The Commission presented a working document accompanying the Commission communication to the European Parliament, the Council, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the modernisation of the EU occupational safety and health legislation and policy. The detailed ex-post evaluation of the EU acquis, checking their relevance as well as efficiency, effectiveness, coherence and EU added value, carried out by the Commission confirms that the framework meets its ambition to adequately protect workers. Main conclusions : the evaluation concluded that the overall structure of the EU occupational safety and health acquis, consisting of a goal-oriented Framework Directive complemented by specific Directives, is generally effective and fit-for-purpose. However, it pointed to specific provisions of individual Directives that have become outdated or obsolete , and highlighted the need to find effective ways to address new risks . The way in which Member States have transposed the EU occupational safety and health Directives varies considerably across Member States. Compliance costs therefore vary and cannot be easily dissociated from more detailed national requirements. As regards SMEs : the evaluation clearly concluded that compliance with the occupational safety and health Directives is more challenging for SMEs than large establishments, while at the same time the major and fatal injury rates are higher for SMEs . Specific support measures are therefore necessary to reach SMEs and help them increase their compliance in an efficient and effective way. Next steps : the evaluation considered that occupational safety and health measures should reach the widest number of people at work, no matter the type of working relationship they are in, and no matter the size of company they work for . Compliance with occupational safety and health rules should be manageable for businesses of all sizes and effectively monitored on the ground. Measures must be result-oriented, instead of paper-driven, and maximum use should be made of new digital tools to facilitate implementation. Characteristics of the evaluation : this exercise also forms part of the Commission's Regulatory Fitness (REFIT) Programme with a special focus on SMEs. In this respect, the evaluation concentrated both on Framework Directive 89/391/EEC and on the other 23 directives related to it. The evaluation also concerned Directive 2003/10/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risk arising from physical agents (noise). The main objective of the Directive is to prevent workers from impairing/losing their hearing, as well as any condition which might arise from exposure to noise, for example permanent ringing in the ears (tinnitus). The Directive is generally relevant in its current form. It has not identified a need for major amendments of the Directive, for example concerning exposure limit values. However, in order to enhance relevance of the Directive, the evaluation study recommended: ensuring a better implementation of existing requirements in the Directive through awareness raising activities and strengthened inspection and guidance regimes; a dialogue with the Member States and the social partners on how to achieve a better implementation of the Directive in music and entertainment sectors; a review and streamline of worker information requirements under the physical agents directives and the review of the health surveillance provisions, to ensure consistency across the four physical agents directives; adoption of measures to ensure that the procedure of adoption/amendment of limit values and action values is clarified and harmonised with the other physical agents Directives. type: Follow-up document body: EC
events
  • date: 1992-12-23T00:00:00 type: Legislative proposal published body: EC docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/smartapi/cgi/sga_doc?smartapi!celexplus!prod!DocNumber&lg=EN&type_doc=COMfinal&an_doc=1992&nu_doc=560 title: EUR-Lex title: COM(1992)0560 summary: PURPOSE : proposal to protect workers from the risks of exposure to physical agents. PROPOSED ACT : Council Directive. CONTENT : The proposal aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety, including the prevention of such risks, arising or likely to arise from exposure to physical agents. It lays down particular minimum requirements in this area. The physical agents are defined as: -audible acoustic fields; -vibrations; -electric or magnetic fields or combinations of these with a frequency equal to or less than 3,10(15) Hertz (wavelength of 100 nanometres or more.) The directive will apply to activities where workers are likely to be exposed to these physical agents as a result of their work. The employer must then carry out an assessment of the risks resulting from exposure. Under the conditions laid down in the relevant Annexes, certain activities must be considered as presenting an increased risk and must be declared to the authority responsible. Each physical agent must be assessed, and where necessary, measured. The risk arising from exposure must be reduced to the lowest achievable level, with the aim of reducing exposure to below the threshold level referred to in the relevant Annex. The proposal proceeds on the basis that minimum requirements in the field must establish the general principles of protection and the objectives to be achieved, whilst leaving open the detailed rules translating the safety levels in operational terms, to be adopted in order to comply with the provisions of the Directive. The proposal makes provisions on personal protection, as well as worker information and training, consultation and participation of workers.
  • date: 1993-04-19T00:00:00 type: Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading/single reading body: EP
  • date: 1994-03-29T00:00:00 type: Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading body: EP summary:
  • date: 1994-03-29T00:00:00 type: Committee report tabled for plenary, 1st reading/single reading body: EP docs: title: A3-0192/1994
  • date: 1994-04-19T00:00:00 type: Debate in Parliament body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?secondRef=TOC&language=EN&reference=19940419&type=CRE title: Debate in Parliament
  • date: 1994-04-20T00:00:00 type: Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading body: EP docs: title: T3-0239/1994 summary:
  • date: 1994-07-08T00:00:00 type: Modified legislative proposal published body: EC docs: url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/smartapi/cgi/sga_doc?smartapi!celexplus!prod!DocNumber&lg=EN&type_doc=COMfinal&an_doc=1994&nu_doc=284 title: EUR-Lex title: COM(1994)0284 summary: The Commission submits to the Council an amended proposal. There are two main types of amendments: -one group of amendments provides useful additional detail and clarification of the initial proposal; -a second group of amendments strengthen the proposal by enhancing the protection offered to the health and safety of workers. The Commission’s amended proposal retains the general structure and objectives of the initial proposal but extends and expands on certain provisions. Of the 41 amendments adopted by Parliament, 31 have been accepted, 4 of these in part. Six amendments have been rejected because they sought to exclude audible acoustic fields (Annex 1) from the scope of the proposal. The Commission has not accepted these amendments because they are contrary to the Commission’s obligations under Article 10 of Directive 86/188/EEC and under the European Parliament resolution of 13 September 1990 which requires the Commission to put forward a proposal on a directive on the basis of Article 118A of the Treaty with regard to the risks arising from noise and vibration and other physical agents. The Commission has also refused an amendment which imposes upon it an obligation already fulfilled by the Commission in producing its annual report on the implementation of Community legislation. Three amendments could not be accepted because their extremely binding nature would impose additional costs on employers yet not contribute to enhancing the health and safety of workers.
  • date: 1999-09-01T00:00:00 type: Vote in committee, 1st reading/single reading body: EP
  • date: 1999-09-01T00:00:00 type: Committee report tabled for plenary confirming Parliament's position body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A5-1999-6&language=EN title: A5-0006/1999
  • date: 1999-09-16T00:00:00 type: Decision by Parliament, 1st reading/single reading body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P5-TA-1999-12 title: T5-0012/1999 summary:
  • date: 2001-10-29T00:00:00 type: Council position published body: CSL docs: url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=ADV&RESULTSET=1&DOC_ID=10479%2F01&DOC_LANCD=EN&ROWSPP=25&NRROWS=500&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC title: 10479/1/2001 summary:
  • date: 2001-11-15T00:00:00 type: Committee referral announced in Parliament, 2nd reading body: EP
  • date: 2002-02-19T00:00:00 type: Vote in committee, 2nd reading body: EP summary:
  • date: 2002-02-19T00:00:00 type: Committee recommendation tabled for plenary, 2nd reading body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A5-2002-38&language=EN title: A5-0038/2002
  • date: 2002-03-12T00:00:00 type: Debate in Parliament body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?secondRef=TOC&language=EN&reference=20020312&type=CRE title: Debate in Parliament
  • date: 2002-03-13T00:00:00 type: Decision by Parliament, 2nd reading body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P5-TA-2002-102 title: T5-0102/2002 summary: The European Parliament adopted a resolution drafted by Helle THORNING-SCHMIDT (PES, DK) and made several amendments to the common position. The principal ones are as follows: -Parliament sought to align the peak pressure level of the upper exposure action level with the original Commission proposal thus providing for some leeway between the upper action level and the exposure limit value; -the text now clearly states that the effective exposure of worker is determinant for applying the exposure limit values; -the risk assessment must take account of hearing protectors; -the wearing of hearing protectors is mandatory as soon as the upper exposure action value is exactly matched; -Parliament specified matters for consultation of workers; -workers exposed above the lower exposure limit value are entitled to a simplified audiometric testing, thus reinforcing the prevention aspects of the directive through the possibility of early detection of hearing loss; -the Commission report on the implementation of the directive shall be based also on new knowledge and research and shall include the result of an overall assessment of the implementation; -the text clarifies the obligations of employers on information and training on hearing protectors; -the Bilbao Agency should encourage exchange of good practices; -Parliament specified an exemption for music and entertainments sectors.
  • date: 2002-08-02T00:00:00 type: Parliament's amendments rejected by Council body: CSL
  • date: 2002-09-12T00:00:00 type: Formal meeting of Conciliation Committee body: EP/CSL
  • date: 2002-10-22T00:00:00 type: Report tabled for plenary, 3rd reading body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&mode=XML&reference=A5-2002-401&language=EN title: A5-0401/2002
  • date: 2002-10-23T00:00:00 type: Final decision by Conciliation Committee body: EP/CSL summary:
  • date: 2002-11-08T00:00:00 type: Joint text approved by Conciliation Committee co-chairs body: EP/CSL docs: url: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/content/out?lang=EN&typ=SET&i=ADV&RESULTSET=1&DOC_ID=3666%2F02&DOC_LANCD=EN&ROWSPP=25&NRROWS=500&ORDERBY=DOC_DATE+DESC title: 3666/2002
  • date: 2002-12-04T00:00:00 type: Debate in Parliament body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?secondRef=TOC&language=EN&reference=20021204&type=CRE title: Debate in Parliament
  • date: 2002-12-05T00:00:00 type: Decision by Parliament, 3rd reading body: EP docs: url: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=TA&language=EN&reference=P5-TA-2002-585 title: T5-0585/2002 summary:
  • date: 2002-12-09T00:00:00 type: Decision by Council, 3rd reading body: CSL
  • date: 2003-02-06T00:00:00 type: Final act signed body: CSL
  • date: 2003-02-06T00:00:00 type: End of procedure in Parliament body: EP
  • date: 2003-02-15T00:00:00 type: Final act published in Official Journal summary: PURPOSE: to lay down minimum requirements for the protection of workers from risks arising from exposure to noise. LEGISLATIVE ACT: Directive 2003/10/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (noise). Seventeenth individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16(1) of Directive 89/391/EEC. CONTENT: this Directive supplements Council Directive 89/391/EEC of 12 June 1989 intended to encourage improvements in health and safety at work and applies more specifically to the exposure of workers to noise. As a reminder, this Directive is the second stage in a process started in 1992 with the presentation by the Commission of a proposal for a Directive on the exposure of workers to physical agents which included the exposure of workers to four types of agent: noise, mechanical vibration, electromagnetic fields and optical radiation. However, this proposal was abandoned in favour of a text covering each of the agents in question. Scope and aim of the Directive: The Directive lays down minimum requirements and leaves Member States the option of maintaining or adopting more favourable provisions in this area. It aims to reorganise the measures already laid down by Directive 86/188/EEC on the protection of workers exposed to noise at work, while taking into account progress made in scientific knowledge and technology since its adoption. However, as current scientific knowledge is not sufficient to enable precise exposure levels to be set, the Directive is limited to defining the objectives to be attained to ensure the application of a minimum level for the exposure of workers to noise. In this context, the Directive establishes three types of noise exposure limit value determined according to physical parameters which are peak sound pressure (maximum value of the instantaneous noise pressure), daily noise exposure level and weekly noise exposure level. These exposure limit values are: - daily noise exposure level: fixed at 87 decibels (dB) with a peak sound pressure of 200 Pa; - action values: fixed respectively at 80 dB for the lower value (and peak sound pressure limited to 112 Pa) and 85 dB for the upper value (and peak sound pressure limited to 140 Pa, as requested by the European Parliament). These two values must be regarded as the values beyond which employers must take the measures specified in the Directive. The exposure limit value cannot, however, be exceeded and must be determined taking into account any noise attenuation measures such as individual hearing protectors worn by workers. Derogations from these measures are provided for, but the limit of 87 dB may not be exceeded. Obligations of employers: the Directive specifies six types of obligation: 1) Determination and assessment of risks: the employer shall assess and, if necessary, measure the levels of noise to which workers are exposed. When carrying out this assessment and given the measures already laid down by Directive 89/391/EEC, the employer shall give particular attention to a series of parameters which include the level, type and duration of exposure, the exposure limit values and exposure action values, the exposure of workers belonging to specific risk groups, any interactions between noise and vibration, the existence of alternative work equipment designed to reduce noise emission, the extension of exposure to noise beyond normal working hours, information on health surveillance and the availability of hearing protectors. Once in possession of this assessment, the employer shall take a series of measures laid down by the Directive and record the results in a suitable medium to allow consultation at a later date; 2) Reduction of risks: every effort must be made to minimise or eliminate the risk of exposure to noise at source. In addition to the measures already laid down in the Framework Directive, provision is made for a programme of technical and/or organisational measures to be established in order to reduce the exposure to noise (choice of appropriate work equipment; design and layout of workplaces; information and training of workers; use of technical measures to reduce noise; improved organisation of work). These measures shall apply in particular if the limit of 85 dB is exceeded (in particular, signage and restriction of access to exposed workplaces); 3) Personal protection: as requested by the European Parliament, if other means cannot prevent the risks, individual hearing protectors shall be made available to workers when the noise exceeds 85 dB; 4) Limitation of exposure: if, despite the measures taken to implement the Directive, the 87 dB limit is exceeded, the employer shall take immediate action to reduce the exposure and to amend the specified measures; 5) Worker information and training: the employer shall ensure that workers who are exposed to noise at or above 80 dB and/or their representatives receive appropriate information and training on exposure to noise and, in particular, the nature of such risks, the measures taken to eliminate these, the existence of exposure limit values and exposure action values, the correct use of hearing protectors, how to detect signs of hearing damage, etc.; 6) Consultation and participation of workers: workers and/or their representatives shall be consulted on the assessment of risks and the measures to be taken. They shall also be consulted on the choice of individual hearing protectors. Health surveillance: in addition to these six general obligations, the Directive provides for specific measures on the health surveillance of workers in order to preserve their hearing. As requested by the European Parliament, when noise levels exceed 85 dB, workers shall have the right to have their hearing checked and, if the exposure level exceeds 80 dB, they shall have the right to a preventive audiometric test. These tests are intended to provide early diagnosis of any loss of hearing and to preserve the hearing of workers. The latter may benefit from individual health records which they may consult at a later date. Provisions are laid down in order to define the arrangements for this audiometric testing. The worker shall be informed of the test result and, if excessive exposure is detected, measures shall be taken to eliminate or reduce the risks (e.g.: assigning the worker to alternative work). Derogations: in exceptional situations where the use of individual hearing protectors would be likely to cause greater risk to the worker’s health or safety than not using these, Member States may derogate from the individual protection obligation. These derogations shall be reviewed every four years. In the music and entertainment sectors, Member States shall be entitled to make use of a transitional period of two years to draw up a code of conduct allowing workers and employers in these sectors to comply with the Directive. Every five years Member States shall provide a report to the Commission on the implementation of the Directive. On the basis of these reports, the Commission shall carry out an overall assessment. Technical amendments may also be made to the Directive in line with technical progress or new findings concerning noise. ENTRY INTO FORCE: 15/02/2003. Directive 86/188/EEC is repealed. TRANSPOSITION IN THE MEMBER STATES: 15/02/2006 except for the music and entertainment sectors (15/02/2008) and for personnel on board seagoing vessels (15/02/2011). docs: title: Directive 2003/10 url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/smartapi/cgi/sga_doc?smartapi!celexplus!prod!CELEXnumdoc&lg=EN&numdoc=32003L0010 title: OJ L 042 15.02.2003, p. 0038-0044 url: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:L:2003:042:TOC
links
European Commission
procedure
reference
1992/0449A(COD)
title
Safety and health at work: exposure of workers to noise
subject
type
COD - Ordinary legislative procedure (ex-codecision procedure)
subtype
Legislation
instrument
Directive
legal_basis
EC Treaty (after Amsterdam) EC 137-p2
stage_reached
Procedure completed
dossier_of_the_committee
CODE/5/16050
final