Carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic (CMR) substances

Introduction

Carcinogenic, mutagenic and reprotoxic substances are often referred to as a group, due to the fact that a substance may present all three types of hazards but also due to similarities in classification and in legal approach. The abbreviation ‘CMR’ is also commonly used.CMRs are chronically toxic and have very serious impacts on health. Over 30 million tonnes of CMRs are produced in Europe yearly[1]. The number of workers exposed to CMRs and the severity of effects call for coordinated scientific, technical and regulatory actions to be taken in order to protect health and improve working conditions.

What are carcinogenic, mutagenic and…