Starting from the most important European directives for the handling of hazardous substances, in this brochure the respective national legal implementations in Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain are presented. The European and national regulations are directly linked, as are the numerous national practical aids provided by various institutions in these countries.

With this overview, the International Section of the ISSA on Prevention in the Chemical Industry provides those responsible for occupational safety and health, as well as all those involved in this process, with an insight beyond their own country. The publishers would like to support them in applying the provisions.