European chemicals strategy under fire

European chemical safety proposals are in danger of being watered down after lobbying from business.

The European Parliament is currently examining the European Commission proposal Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals (REACH).

Environmental groups, hazards campaigners and many unions want REACH to contain tighter safety and evaluation rules. But companies and other unions say this will put European employers at a competitive disadvantage.

The European Trade Union Confederation says one in three occupational diseases in Europe can be ascribed to exposure to hazardous chemicals. It is demanding that the obligations laid down in REACH are consistent with those of the occupational safety and health directives.