Protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents
On 30 June 1995, the European Commission adopted a Directive concerning the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents at work (Directive 95/30/EC). Former Directives in this area include: - Council Directive 89/391 (OJ No L 183 of 29.6.89) on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers; - Council Directive 90/679 (OJ No L 374 of 31.12.90) which lays down specific rules for the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents at work. The list and classification of biological agents regulated under the terms of these Directives must be examined regularly and revised on the basis of new scientific data. The latest Commission Directive, therefore, amends Directive 90/679 in light of technical progress. The amendments concern Annex III of the Council Directive, which covers agents not normally infectious when airborne and for which Member States may, in particular circumstances, waive containment measures. The adaptation re-evaluates these agents on the basis of the most up-to-date knowledge and re-classifies them according to the real situation regarding hazards at the workplace.