EU-Passive smoking at work - ETUC reply to a consultation on the protection of workers exposed to environmental tobacco smoke

According to the data available, the number of workers exposed is approximately 7.5 million across the European Union. The impact of this situation on their health is worrying. Passive smoking involves an increased risk of lung cancer, cardiovascular mortality and respiratory diseases. It also causes many problems with reproductive health. The scientific literature associates it with sudden infant death syndrome, various health problems in children, low birth weight, etc. Certain sectors are particularly exposed, notably in the restaurant and hotel industries.

The European Commission launched a consultation of trade unions and employers' organisations on that issue. The ETUC reply supports a legislative initiative.

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