Seveso III Implementation Report: European industrial safety improved

A new report published Friday (19 Sep) finds that industrial installations have improved the handling of hazardous substances. The Commission Report on the Implementation of the Seveso III Directive (Directive 2012/18/EU) finds that installations throughout Europe are now operating more safely.

The legislation, aimed at preventing major accidents involving dangerous substances, has been instrumental in improving industrial safety in the EU.

Thanks to the Seveso III Directive, the EU benefits from common industrial safety norms and a strong safety culture. This helps prevent industrial accidents and mitigate their harmful consequences when they do occur.

The Directive safeguards the environment and the health of workers at industrial installations and local residents. It also strengthens the EU's competitiveness by ensuring a stable and secure industrial environment.

The second implementation report of the Directive shows progress compared to previous years. From 2019 to 2022, the average annual number of major industrial accidents was under 22, with these accidents having less damaging impacts.

Still, even one accident is too many. Continued implementation of the Directive will help maintain and further enhance industrial safety.

Despite the positive news, there are still challenges concerning inspections, testing of external emergency plans, and public information. The Commission is committed to supporting Member States in fully implementing the Seveso III Directive. Safety is more than a cost; it is an investment that benefits society as a whole.

Background

The Seveso III Directive covers over 11,000 industrial installations across the European Union. It includes a wide range of sectors, such as the chemical and petrochemical industry, refineries, production of pharmaceuticals, manufacture of food products and beverages, and agriculture, among others.

Strict rules apply to installations handling high amounts of dangerous substances, for instance, on inspections and access to information.

This Directive is recognised as a global benchmark for industrial accident policy. Its second implementation report, covering the period 2019-2022, follows a first report on the period 2015-18.

More information

Seveso III Directive 2nd Implementation Report, 2019-22 | EUR-Lex

Seveso III Directive 1st Implementation Report, 2015-18 | EUR-Lex

Seveso III Directive | EUR-Lex

Industrial accidents | European Commission