Section 2: Special provisions for hazardous chemical agents that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction

For any activity likely to present a risk of exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction, the employer assesses the nature, degree and duration of exposure of workers in order to be able to assess the risks to their health or safety and to define the preventive measures to be taken. A joint order by the Ministers of Labour and Agriculture may specify the conditions for this assessment.

The assessment of the risks of exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction is renewed on a regular basis, in particular to take account of changes in knowledge about the products used and any changes in conditions that may affect worker exposure.

Any new activity involving carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction may only be undertaken after a risk assessment has been carried out and appropriate preventive measures implemented.

The employer shall make available to the members of the social and economic committee, as well as to the occupational physician, the labour inspectorate and the agents of the prevention services of the social security bodies, the information used to assess the risks. The results of this assessment are recorded in the single risk assessment document.

For risk assessment purposes, all exposures likely to endanger the health or safety of workers are taken into account, including percutaneous or transcutaneous absorption.