Chapter II: Chemical risk prevention measures

Where the use of an agent that is carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction is likely to lead to exposure, the employer shall reduce the use of that agent in the workplace, in particular by replacing it, as far as is technically possible, with a substance, preparation or process which, under its conditions of use, is not dangerous or is less dangerous to the health or safety of workers. The…

Where the results of the risk assessment provided for in subsection 2 reveal a risk to the health or safety of workers, exposure of workers shall be avoided.

Where it is not practicable to replace a carcinogen, mutagen or agent toxic to reproduction with a substance, preparation or process which is harmless or less dangerous to safety or health, the employer shall take the necessary steps to ensure that the production and use of the carcinogen, mutagen or agent toxic to reproduction takes place in a closed system.

Where the application of a closed system is not practicable, the employer shall ensure that the level of exposure of workers is reduced to as low a level as is technically possible.

In all cases where a carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic agent for reproduction is used, the employer shall apply the following measures: 1° Limitation of the quantities of this agent in the workplace; 2° Limitation of the number of workers exposed or likely to be exposed; 3° Development of work processes and technical measures to avoid or minimise the release of agents; 4° Evacuation of agents in acco rd ance with…

Where an agent which is carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction presents other hazards, the employer shall also implement appropriate measures to eliminate or reduce the other risks arising from the use of that agent.

For all activities where there is a risk of contamination by carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction, the employer shall take the following appropriate measures: 1° Ensure that workers do not eat, drink or smoke in the work areas concerned; 2° Provide protective clothing or any other appropriate clothing, place it in a specific place, check and clean it, if possible before and, in any event, after each use…

When the maintenance of personal protective equipment and clothing is carried out outside the company, the head of the company responsible for transport and maintenance is informed of the possibility and nature of the contamination, in accordance with the prevention coordination rules provided for in article R. 4511-5.

In the light of the results of the risk assessment, the employer shall take appropriate measures to ensure that the areas where activities revealing a risk to health or safety take place are not accessible to workers other than those who, by reason of their work or duties, are required to enter them.