The European Parliament and Council have officially approved new exposure limit values for diisocyanates, as announced in the Official Journal of the EU. The move has garnered positive reception from trade associations ISOPA and ALIPA.

Under the new legislation, a time-weighted average occupational exposure limit (OEL) of 6µg/m3 for diisocyanates has been established over an eight-hour period. Member states are required to incorporate these updated limit values into their national laws by April 9, 2026.

A significant aspect of the new regulation is the uniformity it brings across all member states, replacing the previously existing diverse limits. ISOPA and ALIPA emphasized the importance of creating a level playing field within the EU to ensure consistency across all member states.

Acknowledging the substantial investment needed from the industry, the associations welcomed the transitional value of 10µg/m3, applicable until December 31, 2028. They believe this transition period will facilitate the reinforcement of risk management measures and the adoption of best practices by EU downstream sectors of polyurethane systems, aiding in the adjustment to the new limit values.

The associations expressed confidence in the effectiveness of these EU OEL values, combined with the mandatory worker training required by the existing EU Restriction under Reach. They view this framework as a crucial step towards reducing occupational asthma cases while considering socio-economic and feasibility factors.

ISOPA and ALIPA are gearing up to release a practical guideline for industry professionals on complying with the new limits, expected to be available in the coming weeks.