Protection of employees against risks related to exposure to carcinogenic, mutagenic agents or reprotoxic substances at work

On March 13, 2025, Luxembourg introduced a Grand-Ducal regulation that significantly strengthens the protection of employees against risks associated with exposure to carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic agents in the workplace. This initiative is in line with the European commitments outlined in Directive (EU) 2022/431, which aims to ensure optimal safety in professional environments.

 

Effective since March 21, 2025, this regulation provides crucial clarifications, particularly regarding occupational exposure limit values, which must be strictly observed. Companies are now required to regularly assess the nature, degree, and duration of workers’ exposure, paying special attention to at-risk populations and non-airborne exposure routes, such as dermal absorption.

 

One of the notable new elements is the precise definition of “threshold” and “non-threshold” reprotoxic substances, with specific measures associated with each category. Moreover, the regulation explicitly requires employers to substitute or minimize the use of such substances whenever technically feasible, thereby reinforcing primary risk prevention.

 

Companies must also implement a set of mandatory measures to limit exposure, including the use of closed systems, adequate ventilation, strict hygiene measures, appropriate protective equipment, regular employee training and information on potential risks, as well as systematic medical monitoring.

 

Mandatory medical surveillance has been significantly reinforced: tailored biological and medical monitoring—including the recording of medical history and regular health checks—is required for exposed workers. In addition, binding biological limit values have been introduced, notably for lead, to provide greater protection for employees.

 

In cases of abnormal or unforeseen exposure, the regulation provides for a detailed protocol to ensure immediate safety and minimize health impacts.

 

Finally, specific obligations concerning the retention of medical records—up to 40 years for certain agents—ensure optimal traceability of exposure and facilitate the long-term health monitoring of affected workers.

 

This regulation thus represents a major step forward in occupational health protection, reflecting Luxembourg’s clear commitment to enhanced prevention of professional risks related to hazardous substances. You can consult the full text on the official Legilux website: www.legilux.lu.