The Commission, at the Social Summit in Porto on 7 May 2021 validated the EU strategic framework for health and safety at work for the period 2021-2027. This framework defines the key actions needed to improve the health and safety of workers in the coming years. It is structured around 3 themes
- Anticipating and managing change in the new world of work. The Commission will review the Workplace Directive and the Display Screen Equipment Directive. It will update the protection limits for asbestos and lead. It will develop an initiative on mental health at work, which will assess emerging issues related to workers' mental health and propose guidelines for action.
- Improve prevention of work-related illnesses and injuries. The Commission will promote the "Vision Zero" approach to eliminate work-related deaths in the EU. It will also update EU rules on hazardous chemicals to combat cancer, reproductive disorders and respiratory diseases.
- Improve preparedness for potential future health threats. The Commission will develop emergency procedures and guidelines for the rapid deployment, implementation and monitoring of measures in potential future health crises, in close cooperation with public health actors.
"Good health at work is not only about our physical condition, but also about our mental health and well-being." Nicolas Schmit, European Commissioner for Employment and Social Rights
Nicolas Schmit, former Luxembourg Minister of Labour and current Commissioner for Employment and Social Rights, recalled that: "The 10th principle of the European set of social rights gives workers the right to a high level of protection of their health and safety at work. As we work to rebuild better after the crisis, this principle should be at the heart of our action. We must commit to a zero vision approach to work-related deaths in the EU."
