Endocrine disruptors (EDs)

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are substances that affect hormone systems in the human body, thereby harming human health. They can also be harmful to environmental organisms. EDs pose a challenge for occupational safety and health in many areas: they are used, for example, in the manufacture of plastics and pesticides, and are found in products used by people in the course of their work, such as during crop spraying.

In April 2023, the European Union (EU) added endocrine disruptors to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (Classification, Labelling, Packaging, CLP Regulation) by way of two new hazard classes:

• Endocrine disruption for human health
• Endocrine disruption for the environment

These hazard classes have not yet been adopted in the United Nations Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).

Further information can be found on the following pages:

Regulatory provisions (categories, transition periods, further provisions)

Health and environmental hazards

Hazards and protective measures in the workplace