MEPs back EU agency reforms

摘要

MEPs have approved revised terms of reference for the EU Safety and Health Agency based in Bilbao, Spain. The changes give the agency powers - and the means - to analyse factors behind industrial accidents and diseases, rather than simply collating and disseminating raw data. The changes also underscore the obligation on state administrations to provide information requested by the agency. Established in 1994 and fully operational since 1996, the agency's main tasks to date have been to "collect and disseminate technical, scientific and economic information" on occupational health and safety as guidance to the EU institutions - notably when the European Commission is considering legislation - and to run awareness-raising campaigns.