The division of functions between legislation and standardization as embodied in the New Approach has proved effective in many product areas. The result is a common body of technical regulations applicable throughout Europe which has been developed with a strong degree of commitment. However, growing internationalization, shorter innovation cycles, changes in statutory requirements and the availability of only limited resources for participation present standardization work with new challenges.

The strategy committee for occupational safety and health of AFNOR, the French standards institute, has for some time been addressing how the quality of harmonized European standards can be improved further in the course of their revision. The most important proposals for improvements resulting from the discussions are presented below.

A new trend is emerging: numerous CEN Workshop Agreements (CWAs) and other specifications are being developed on safety-related topics. In a position paper, KAN has described the procedures for the creation of CWAs and PAS and the particular issues that they present for occupational safety and health. The paper serves OSH experts as a guidance document for dealing with these specifications.

Since June 2009, a KAN working group comprising representatives of the German accident insurance institutions, regional authorities, test bodies, the research community and industry has been intensively addressing the issue of protection against the effects of fault arcs. The group's original aim was to discuss the parameters for the type-testing of clothing for protection against thermal hazards presented by fault arcs. Ultimately, however, the discussions extended beyond this original task.

In Europe, a large number of players are involved in regulation, standardization, testing and certification in the area of occupational safety and health. In order to assure, over the long term, the safety of products used at workplaces, it is essential that all stakeholders co-operate actively and pool information and new findings.

Trust is good, but supervision is better. Work equipment and other technical products such as machines, electric appliances, PPE or toys must be safe. Verifying this safety is the task of the market surveillance authorities. In order to facilitate the flow of information on hazardous products between manufacturers, consumers and the authorities, the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) has set up a comprehensive product safety portal.