Recently, the Ministry of Environment of Denmark issued two important notifications regarding the exposure to hazardous chemicals in the workplace, aligning its regulations with the European Union's Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (CMD).
1. Updates exposure limits for two chemicals
Benzene, widely used as a solvent and also as a starting material in synthesizing many organic compounds, can cause damage to the skin and eyes, central nervous system, respiratory system, hematopoietic system, and reproductive system with long-term exposure. Classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), prolonged exposure to benzene can increase the risk of leukemia and other cancers.
Acrylonitrile, a commonly used organic compound in the production of synthetic fibers, plastics, rubber, and chemical products, and also as an important intermediate in organic synthesis, poses potential toxicity and hazards. Exposure to acrylonitrile can damage the skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, and reproductive system, and prolonged exposure may also increase the risk of cancer.
The notification revised the occupational exposure limit (OEL) for benzene to 0.2 ppm (0.66 mg/m³) and implemented the OEL for acrylonitrile at 0.45 ppm (1 mg/m³), with a short-term limit of 4 mg/m³ (1.8 ppm).
2. Updates the handling requirements for reproductive toxicants
Reproductive toxicants can interfere with the normal function of the reproductive system, affecting an individual's health or the health and development of their offspring. This notification incorporates reproductive toxicants and hazardous medicinal products (HMPs) in the national occupational exposure laws, subject to the same regulations as carcinogens and mutagens.
3. Clarifies the requirement for regular training for employees exposed in healthcare environments, with the aim of increasing workers' safety awareness against exposure to hazardous chemicals.
These notifications have come into effect on April 5, 2024, and the new limits will officially apply from April 5, 2026.
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